Now taking applications for new members. The adult day program is open Mondays & Thursdays as of February 22, 2024.
Opening Monday-Friday beginning May 1, 2024.
The Don & Beth Straus Center, an adult day program located at Birch Bay Retirement Village in Bar Harbor, provides socialization and support services for seniors and their family members in Hancock County. Members are encouraged to participate in a variety of programming based on individual needs and interests.
Morning and afternoon refreshments and a nourishing homestyle meal are served daily. Medication administration and personal support, as well as grooming and beauty services are available. Consulting medical staff assist with health monitoring. Program staff work with families to develop an individualized plan of care for each member.
Programming includes:
Family caregivers are encouraged to use their time to enjoy their favorite activity or to join one of our support groups to share the joys and challenges of caregiving.
- Painting and artistic expression
- Gardening
- Mind joggers
- Cooking and baking
- Storytelling and legacy projects
- Music therapy
- Exercise, dancing, and creative movement
- Volunteer entertainment
Transportation is Available to Qualified Members
We provide transportation to members who live on Mount Desert Island and can meet any off-island members at the head of the island at no additional cost. Some conditions apply to qualify for transportation.
Funding is Available to Qualified Members
The Straus Center is grateful to connect our day program families with Eastern Area Agency on Aging who provide funding to eligible families through their Caregiver Respite Program. Visit EAAA’s website or call them at 1-800-432-7812 for more information.
Various funding options are available, making our program accessible and affordable for all.
Thanks to a generous endowment provided by Don & Beth Straus, The Don & Beth Straus Center opened in 2009.
Don & Beth Straus