(Provided by Gilbert Guide's on-site reviewer)

A mobility specialist and music therapist combined their skills to find the perfect musical beat for a participant with Parkinson's. The musical accompaniment greatly improved the man's ambulation. Thinking outside the box is par for the course for staff of Adult Care of Chester County. The result is a creative and innovative program that really focuses on the individual needs of its participants. Located on a country road next to a small historic church, the attractive white building is beautifully landscaped and surrounded by flowers, patios and vegetable gardens that the participants often tend. The interior is equally stimulating, with a cheerful décor of pastels, paintings, flower arrangements, aquariums and participant-made crafts. Soft artificial lighting complements the natural light streaming through the center's many windows. The lower level contains a woodshop, ceramic studio, hairdressing station, and therapy room. A fully equipped kitchen is at the ready for cooking and baking activities. During our visit, we were delighted to observe a small group of women thoroughly enjoying themselves while baking and shaping soft pretzels in the form of alphabet letters. Four distinct clubs comprise the center's uniquely specialized activity program. For example, "Kilpatrick Club" attendees are mainly older men who are mentally alert, yet have some physical limitations. We noticed several members actively listening to a guest speaker; all appeared happy and attentively engaged. Exercise programs are adjusted to fit participants' varying levels of functioning, while puzzles and word games, book clubs and bible study nurture cognitive abilities. Fun individual and group lessons include a bell choir and drum circle, and participants put on their own talent shows several times a year. Day trips and small group outings to local restaurants or shopping destinations are popular. We were impressed with the staff's team approach to participant care. They seemed truly happy to engage in activities with their clients. Another unique aspect of Adult Care of Chester County is the Family Chat Connection, on online service that allows families can log on and find out what their loved one is up to throughout the day.