Beit David’s Day Center is an educational-occupational setting for women of advanced age with moderate developmental disabilities and lower functional abilities. The center furnishes them with a protected and appropriate framework with individualized rehabilitation and enrichment activities.
The center is located in the heart of the Maoz Zion neighborhood of Mevaseret, close to the hostels where the women live. It aims to provide services to residents of the community as well.
The Day Center currently serves 29 women, divided into three groups. Each group is guided by a certified special education teacher and a therapeutic counselor.
The group’s daily schedule is built by the class teacher and an occupational therapist. It combines education for independence in all aspects of life, tailored to the abilities of the women, their wellbeing, emotional state and desires. The residents benefit from participating in a range of group activities:
Occupational Therapy: An occupational therapist teaches the women and guides the staff in therapeutic approaches to advancing skills for everyday life and recreational activities.
Physical Therapy: Under the guidance of a team of physical therapists, this group participates in exercises for rehabilitation, improved function and preventing movement-related problems.
Communication: Led by a speech therapist, this group aims to improve language and speech in an experiential manner that relates to context from the residents’ world.
Art: Participants in this group produce art and jewelry items for sale, under the guidance of a professional art teacher. The products are packaged by the women and sold at Beit David’s stand of plants in the local mall.
Beit David’s educational and social work staff devote hours of thought and discussion to determining how to advance every resident and provide them with tools for appropriate behavior in a constructive and supportive manner. Their work is characterized by respect, patience, and sincere concern for the welfare of each resident. A nurse is always available to answer residents’ needs and help the staff respond to medical issues.
Many Day Center participants receive individual multi-sensory therapy in the Snoezelen room. Guided by a multidisciplinary team, Snoezelen therapy soothes, stimulates and enhances positive behaviors.
The women enjoy fun and joyful parties, performances and activities specially tailored for them by Beit David’s leisure culture team.
Once a year, families of the residents are invited to participate in a family day, to spend quality time with their loved ones, enjoy a meal together, and participate in a creative program prepared especially for families.