“My grandmother, she was originally with another program. They ended and sent us a list and at the top of the list was Chicago Commons. And I heard great things about Chicago Commons from my home care worker at that time. She is always happy when she’s here. The people here love my grandmother.
They remember their birthdays. They celebrate them. They treat them with reverence. With dementia patients, you sometimes have a worry that they’ll wander outside or they’ll wander away. You won’t know. She’s 90 years old at this time. So, if she starts to wobble or she needs some help getting back and forth to the room, someone is there. So, that gives me a nice peace of mind. She gets up in the morning and she just looks forward to going- to be social. That’s how it is with Chicago Commons, part of the family.”
When Charlotte enrolled her 90-year-old grandmother, Ruth, in Chicago Commons’ Adult Day Services program, she found more than professional support — she found peace of mind knowing Ruth is safe, active, and surrounded by caregivers who treat her like family. Every day at our Bronzeville center, up to 80 seniors and adults with disabilities receive personalized care, health monitoring, nutritious meals, and the social connection that enhances their quality of life. For families like Ruth’s, compassionate care means dignity, belonging, and relief.
When Charlotte’s grandmother Ruth turned 90, caring for her became both a labor of love and a daily worry. Ruth, who lives with dementia, had previously attended another adult care program until it closed — leaving Charlotte in search of a place where her grandmother would feel safe, cared for, and seen. At the recommendation of her home care worker, Charlotte found Chicago Commons’ Adult Day Services in Bronzeville. From the very beginning, she sensed something different. “My grandmother is always happy when she’s here,” Charlotte shared. “The people here love her. They remember her birthday. They treat her like family.”
At Chicago Commons, Ruth’s days are filled with activity and companionship. She enjoys nutritious meals, range-of-motion exercises, and opportunities to socialize that bring a spark back to her mornings. The caregivers, nurses, and staff know each participant personally — noticing if someone needs help walking to the dining room or a gentle reminder to join in a game or activity.
For Charlotte, that personal attention has made all the difference. “With dementia patients, you sometimes worry they’ll wander or fall,” she explained. “But someone is always there. That gives me peace of mind.” Beyond safety and structure, Ruth has regained a sense of purpose. Her days at the center inspire joy and connection — a reason to get up early and be part of something meaningful. “She looks forward to going every morning,” Charlotte said with a smile. “That’s when I knew we’d found the right place.”
Every day, Chicago Commons’ Adult Day Services supports up to 80 seniors and adults with disabilities — offering preventive health care, recreational activities, and a caring environment that strengthens families and communities alike. For Ruth and Charlotte, it means more than care; it means belonging. Chicago Commons has provided 130 years of multi-generational support, helping people like Ruth continue to live with dignity and helping family caregivers like Charlotte find relief and connection. Their story is one of many — proof of how compassion, consistency, and community-centered care can transform lives across generations.
