Valley Adult Day Services Reopens to Provide Respite for Caregivers

A longtime care provider that closed due to COVID-19 has reopened in Porterville.

Valley Adult Day Services (VADS) provides respite for caregivers from caring for patients or loved ones who require ongoing care and attention.

Previously known as Porterville Adult Day Services, the nonprofit operates near the city's center at 227 E. Oak Ave. in Porterville from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Those with cognitive impairments are the core clients for VADS, including those with Alzheimer's, dementia, Parkinson's disease or a traumatic brain injury. In addition, VADS serves as an elder care resource and referral service for those seeking help but are uncertain where to turn.

"But you don't have to have an impairment to come here," said Laura Kaylor, executive director for VADS. "It could be that someone needs socialization," she said, adding that the only stipulation is that the person is 18 years old or older.

VADS provides half-day and full-day programming for those living between Porterville and Visalia. Kaylor said she looks forward to being able to provide low-cost transportation services again at some point in the future, but for now, those participating in VADS have to provide their own transportation.

Opened in 1990, VADS came into existence when two ministers from different churches determined there was a serious need for adult day care to provide respite to caregivers in Tulare County. It has been supported by the United Way of Tulare County, as well as the Kings Tulare Area Agency on Aging.

For more information, go to http://www.valleyadultdayservices.org or call (559) 783-9815.