Institute on Aging - Enrichment Center in the Presidio

Very kind and caring staff in a beautiful setting in the heart of the Presidio. The activities were fun and the food was good (said my uncle, who was a restaurateur). The director, Clara, also gave me a lot of good advice on resources to contact for my uncle’s care in terms of living facilities. A very cool place and a very good vibe. 👍

My sister who has dementia goes to the Enrichment Center( EC) twice a week. This is her happy place. They have numerous activities to help slow down the cognitive decline. She has met and connected with other participants. The opportunity to engage with others is so important for my sister while she deals with the challenges associated with dementia. Most importantly the staff at EC do an outstanding job of managing needs and behaviors related to dementia. As one staff member said “ we make sure Marylou feels we see her”. This is such an important value that cannot necessarily be taught. I also have availed of another program offered by IOA. I have a counselor who I can partner with as I navigate this difficult journey of caring for a loved one with dementia. Alex , my counselor, is an invaluable resource for focusing on my needs and feelings as a caretaker for my sister. She is very accessible and responsive. We have peer support group meetings twice a month which is another source of different perspectives on how to help our loved ones. Caring for a loved one with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and other similar health issues is extremely taxing and isolating. iOA offers programs and a team of caring and knowledgeable team members who can help you and your loved one through this very difficult journey.

The Enrichment Center is just excellent. My wife is a fully disabled Veteran who suffers from Alzheimer's. She attends the center daily. This is a safe space that provides productivity, stimulation, and engagement, as well. The attendees are from all walks of life with a common affliction of cognitive disorders. The staff is kind, considerate, and loving to each person, providing a customized approach to each person’s needs. When you walk in, you can see and feel the affection. They have been easy to communicate with and responsible. I’m always in awe of its location. Activities abound in the famed Presidio at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge. Walking in the forest full of tall eucalyptus trees, on the beach, or sitting on the grass at Crissy Field is a calming place each day. I want to give a shout-out to the San Francisco VA for placing her here and helping arrange transportation to and from each day. Thank you! As for the Enrichment Center…thank you from the bottom of my heart.