MOUNT MORRIS, N.Y., Aug. 20, 2025 — Two months ago, Marianne Klick of Livonia suffered a life-changing stroke which left her severely weakened and nearly unable to speak. Her doctor diagnosed her with Broca’s aphasia, a language disorder that often affects a person’s ability to produce speech. Marianne’s niece, Samantha Janson, assumed the role as her full-time caregiver, but quickly found herself overcome by the demands of work and round-the-clock care for her aunt.
That’s when she discovered the Garden of Life adult day health care program. Located in the County’s four-star rated Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation in Mount Morris, the Garden of Life provides a safe place for adult loved ones needing extra care during the day to receive therapy, socialization, and professional medical care in a secure and compassionate setting. For families caring for loved ones at home, it provides a much-needed break from the demands of caregiving, allowing them to run errands, work, or simply take time to rest.
“I enrolled her to obtain therapy, get some socialization, and give me time away from providing care,” said Janson. “Without the program, I would feel very overwhelmed, as it is extremely difficult providing care 24 hours a day.”
Klick, 73, now attends the Garden of Life three days a week and is making real progress toward recovery through the program’s services.
“She’s getting stronger and able to do things more independently,” added Janson. “It’s a wonderful program.”
Jennifer Haas, 57, of Mount Morris, has been attending the Garden of Life for nearly a year.
Her daily routine at the center begins with a healthy breakfast, followed by time for engaging crafts, a lively game of bingo, painting and group conversation. She said the program has helped her to gain confidence and independence through participation in new activities, spending time connecting with others, and stepping outside of her comfort zone.
“I enjoy painting, cooking items to eat here, and making new and different things. I’m a little more open to socialize with everyone now. I am valued. My opinion matters,” she said. “I go out more on my own now. To others considering it [the Garden of Life], I’d say give it a chance.”
Tricia Mathis of Dansville has also been with the adult day program for a year. She said she has benefitted from daily attendance and looks forward each day to bingo and other games, crafts, and conversation lively conversation with the other participants.
“It keeps me active and moving,” said Mathis of the program’s many benefits.
Her family agrees, describing the Garden of Life team as friendly and caring.
“Tricia’s enrollment gets her off the couch and lets her do projects and mingle with other people,” said Candy Watts, Tricia’s mother. “It gives us time to go to work and earn a living. It also gives Tricia a break from us. It’s made a huge impact.”
The Garden of Life offers personalized care plans specifically tailored to each participant along with a comprehensive range of services to meet the needs of each individual. The facility also offers:
- Rehabilitation services: physical, occupational, and speech therapy
- Scheduled dental care, audiology, and ophthalmology examinations
- On-site laboratory and podiatry services
- Monitoring and coordinating treatments and medications
- Therapeutic, social, and recreational activities
- Assistance with activities of daily living
One of the most comprehensive facilities in the area, the Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation also provides various treatment methods and state-of-the-art healthcare options ranging from bariatric care, to pharmacological services, hair care, and more.
Learn more about the CNR’s programs, support and outpatient services, career and volunteer opportunities, and more by visiting the Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation website. To schedule a tour or for questions, please contact Rebecca Sica, Garden of Life Adult Day Program Charge RN, at 585-243-7221. For admission information, please call 585-243-7209.
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About Livingston County:
Founded in 1821, Livingston County, N.Y., is home to more than 61,000 residents in 17 towns located across 631 square miles of the Finger Lakes region.