Adult day care centers provide care for adults who need supervised care on a short-term basis. Most of the adults are elderly, but the centers also serve younger adults who are physically or mentally disabled. Centers provide a comprehensive program of services in a group setting. The number of adult day care centers has increased dramatically over the past several years. This growth is partially due to new funding sources that support alternatives to long-term care and rehabilitation in institutions.
Types of Day Care for the Elderly
There are generally three kinds of day care options for the elderly: social adult day care, which focuses on social interaction, recreation, meals and some health-related services; medical/health adult day care, which offers more extensive medical and therapeutic services for people with severe medical problems or who are at risk for nursing home care; and specialized adult day care, which caters to the unique needs of particular conditions and diseases such as Alzheimer's.
Services provided at adult day care centers are customized to each participant's needs and may include: individual and group activities such as music, art, and sensory stimulation; family counseling; speech, physical and occupational therapies; and assistance with daily living activities.
Benefits of Day Care for the Elderly
Day care for the elderly is very beneficial for caregivers. Adult day care services can allow a primary caregiver to continue working outside the home, or receive respite from the continuous responsibilities of caregiving. The option of adult day care can also delay the need to place a loved one in a nursing home.
Adult day care also can provide benefits to the care recipient. The activities at the day care center can be stimulating and fun for the individual. Participants have the opportunity to interact with peers, and receive therapy and assistance from professionals.
Choosing an Adult Day Care Center
Families should carefully research all the options available to find an adult day care center that best meets the needs of their loved one. A quality day care program for seniors should include the following: an individual needs assessment prior to admission that is monitored and adjusted on an ongoing basis; an active program meeting the recreational, social and rehabilitative needs of the individual; referrals to other community services; clear criteria for service parameters; a full range of services that meet the care recipient's needs; a safe and secure environment; well-qualified and trained staff or volunteers; and adherence to all applicable state and federal guidelines.
It is also wise to talk to other caregivers who have used the adult day care center's services. Local Area Agencies on Aging and the Better Business Bureau may also have information on the center.
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