People Inc.Connection at Every Stage of Life: Inside People Inc.’s Senior Day Program
May 14, 2026
Music drifts through the room as tambourines shake in rhythm and maracas keep time. A circle of senior day program participants sing along to old favorites like Elvis Presley and ABBA during music therapy, smiling and laughing as familiar melodies spark memories.
At one point, the group enthusiastically joins together for the chorus of “Do wah diddy diddy dum diddy do,” filling the space with energy and joy.
Earlier in the day, different sounds were heard. Lively rounds of Family Feud-style trivia prompted cheers from one corner, while another participant focused carefully on painting a ceramic butterfly. The smell of homemade chili, prepared by a staff member and shared together for lunch, fills the building.
This is a typical day at People Inc.’s senior day program, where older adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities find connection and continue building skills, while remaining active and engaged.
“Programs for seniors are important because every person deserves the opportunity to age with dignity, purpose, connection, and support,” said Beth Duncan, program director at People Inc. “These programs provide not only care and safety, but also friendship, inclusion, independence, and a sense of belonging that enriches quality of life at every age.”
As the population supported by People Inc. ages, the needs of participants evolve as well. The program is designed to help people maintain independence while receiving the additional support they may need later in life. Activities are personalized based on individual interests and abilities.
For Gretchen VonBuhr, that means exploring her passion for history. She especially enjoys learning about American history, including the War of 1812, and discovering more about the history of her family and hometown of Kenmore. Staff members help turn those interests into meaningful community outings, bringing her to museums and local historical sites such as the Steel Plant Museum.
Cooking is another favorite activity within the program. Participants regularly prepare meals and snacks together, learning important skills such as meal preparation, kitchen safety, following directions, teamwork, measuring ingredients, and making healthy choices.
“Cooking also encourages creativity, independence, and social interaction. Most importantly, the people supported enjoy the sense of accomplishment that comes from creating something themselves and sharing it with others,” said Duncan.
Throughout the day, participants choose activities based on what interests them most, whether that is trivia, crafts, karaoke, music therapy or simply spending time with friends. The program’s flexible structure allows people to remain active while receiving support tailored to their needs.
“I think you often see people at their stage of life isolated,” said Deborah Ireland, a direct support professional at the senior day habilitation site, who has worked at People Inc. for more than 40 years. “This place offers them an opportunity to connect, with the staff and with each other. It’s a beautiful thing. We all need that.”
Learn more about People Inc. Day Services on our website.