Meet Eleanor Langstaff, LICSW, Director of Shapiro-Rudolph Adult Day Health

Eleanor Langstaff literally sings on the job! A talented musician, Eleanor has entertained Shapiro-Rudolph Adult Day Health Center (SRADHC) participants and staff by singing at campus concerts, along with a singer friend she recruited as a volunteer. Not surprisingly, the two have garnered rave reviews.

But Eleanor does much more than sing in her position as Director of Shapiro-Rudolph Adult Day Health Center. Having started at the ADHC in July 2023 as Assistant Director/Social Worker, she thrived and was promoted to Executive Director last March. In this role, Eleanor oversees all aspects of the ADHC program, including working with staff, volunteers and community members to ensure that quality care, services and support are provided to participants and their caregivers. “Adult day health is a terrific option for many families since it allows adults to get the care they need while continuing to live in their own home,” explained Eleanor.

Growing up on the North Shore, Eleanor really enjoyed the area with its beaches, close-knit community and proximity to Boston. She has stayed true to her roots; she grew up in Beverly and now lives in Salem. “I am definitely a North Shore-ite,” said Eleanor with a laugh. “I really love living here.”

Eleanor received a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from Mount Holyoke College and a Master of Social Work from Salem State University. She has worked in a variety of jobs and settings: Group leader at an inpatient psychiatric unit, counselor at a residential program at McLean Hospital, and as a social worker at a primary care physician’s office.

Personal experience was the impetus for Eleanor entering the adult day health field. “I actually decided to go into the adult day health field because of my grandparents,” explained Eleanor. “I saw, firsthand, the positive benefits for my grandfather when he attended an adult day health program. It was a great place for him to socialize and stay as active as possible while giving my grandmother some much-needed respite and time for herself.” Added Langstaff, “That experience had a lasting impact upon me.”

Working in Peabody, Eleanor quickly realized the camaraderie among staff and residents was special. “it feels like one big family,” commented Eleanor. “Our staff works extremely hard to provide exceptional care to our clients and to support their caregivers. I appreciate the warm and welcoming environment.”

In her spare time, Eleanor enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling to new places, going on hikes and attending concerts. She is always on the go! After an extended trip to Germany, she became fluent in German. Eleanor is hoping to travel to other countries and learn new languages in the process.

When asked what she liked best about her Director role, Eleanor didn’t even hesitate. ”My job is so gratifying,” responded Eleanor. “I see our clients enjoying their time here, being active and participating in activities. At the same time, we provide relief to families and caregivers. Keeping loved ones at home for as long as possible often makes a big difference in the quality of life for the senior and the family.”