Adult Day Care (ADC) programs can offer a safe, positive, caring, and relatively low-cost alternative to long term residential care for people living with dementia. These programs are designed to help people stay mentally and physically active, reduce isolation, and improve mood and health.
Services vary from center to center, but generally include therapeutic and recreational activities, transportation to and from the center, nutritious meals, and socialization — all offered in a welcoming environment by trained staff that support and supervise all activities. Some programs are available specifically for people with early-stage memory loss.
Selecting an Adult Day Care Program
Questions to ask ahead of time
- Days and hours of operation?
- Is transportation available?
- Cost of adult day care services? Are discounts available?
- Ratio of staff to participants?
- Staff credentials/languages spoken?
- What activities are provided?
- Does the staff receive specialized dementia training? Do they all have experience working with people with memory loss?
- What safety precautions are in place for wandering?
Schedule a visit
Ask for a trial day; many will offer a free half-day visit. After the visit, consider the following questions:
- Did they present information clearly about services and activities at the center?
- Was the facility clean and pleasant with comfortable sturdy furniture?
- Did both staff and participants seem cheerful?
- Were participants involved in activities and if not, were staff attentive to these individuals?
- If the person living with dementia also visited, did they seem engaged or happier after leaving?
Adjusting to a new environment
It usually takes several weeks for participants to feel comfortable in a new setting and with a new routine. Be patient and compassionate. Ask for a meeting with staff if any questions or problems come up, as they may have suggestions to make the transition easier. It is also important that the care partner remembers to care for their own health and well-being during this time.
Learn more about various care services by calling us at 858.492.4400 and speaking with one of our Clinical Care Coaches (Spanish speakers available). Also check out our free education classes, support groups, social activities, & more.
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