Celine Baribeau and her team at the Merrimack Adult Day Health Center, which was recently named the Best Adult Day Care Center in New Hampshire. Courtesy photo/Merrimack Adult Day Health Center

MERRIMACK – Just two years after opening, the Merrimack Adult Day Health Center has been honored as this year’s Best Adult Day Care Center in New Hampshire.

Founded by Celine Baribeau in January 2024, the organization strives to “promote dignity, delay nursing home placement, enhance self-esteem and encourage socialization.”

Baribeau also said she and her colleagues work to assuage the responsibility and worry that caregivers manage along with their own careers and the needs of other family members.

“Our center supports caregivers by providing a safe and enriching place for their loved ones during the day,” she said, adding that center participants range in age from their late-40s to their mid-90s. “We give family members the opportunity to attend appointments, work or simply rest. As a trusted community resource, MADHC strengthens families, eases caregiver burden and plays an important role in the local elder care network.”

In addition, Baribeau said she believes in offering activities that are both engaging and meaningful to older adults. This runs the gamut from art and music to language classes and discussions about current events.

The center also has a multilingual staff, speaking English, French and Spanish.

“Community is at the heart of everything we do,” said Baribeau. “From meals to activities, we strive to reflect and celebrate the traditions and backgrounds of those we serve.”

Paul Michaud of Nashua said his wife, Frances, has frontotemporal dementia and has been with the center since it opened.

Michaud said his wife is currently unable to speak or care for herself. Therefore, she cannot be left alone for any length of time. However, he does not have to worry when she is at the center.

“At the center, she is in a safe environment and is well taken care of by an exceptional,

compassionate staff,” he said. “They assist her with all aspects of everyday living. This allows me the opportunity to accomplish the things I need to do during the week as well as allowing some free time for myself.”