by: Melanie Farley
As the costs of long-term care continues to rise, many people are looking for a more affordable alternative that still offers seniors the compassionate care they deserve. Adult day care costs significantly less than assisted living or in-home care, and it offers many benefits that the alternatives do not offer.
The biggest benefit of adult day care might be the freedom it affords seniors, since it offers a safe, engaging place to spend the day. Then seniors can return home in the evening to be with their families and caregivers. There are many more benefits to adult day services, however.
Read on to learn more about the benefits of adult day care for seniors!
Engaging Activities
A successful day center should have a thriving activities program. Structured activities that are great for seniors include:
- music therapy
- arts and crafts
- puzzles and boardgames
- physical activities (stretching, gentle movement)
- social events
It’s best to look for a center that offers a variety of activities, since they are all important to memory care. Activities like crafts and boardgames are great for intellectual stimulation, for example. Exercise can help promote relaxation, and music therapy can help seniors retain memories for longer.
Routine & Structure
Studies have shown that seniors who maintain a regular routine are able to retain cognitive skills for longer by regularly performing tasks that are familiar to them. Plus, the structure of a regular routine is comforting.
An adult day center can provide participants with regular routines. The staff will also offer personalized attention to ensure that seniors are participating in designated activities throughout the day. Many adult day cares also have nursing staff on site to ensure participants are taking scheduled medications.
Socialization
Socialization improves mood, focus, and has been shown to slow cognitive decline. Studies have shown that seniors who experience loneliness on a regular basis are more likely to develop dementia.
That’s because social activities support brain health. Humans are social beings, and socializing helps increase brain strength and improves our ability to manage emotions. So, socialization is a key part of senior health and wellness because of its impact on mood and brain health. Adult day centers offer participants an active social calendar that promotes whole-person wellness.
A Final Word…
Adult day care offers significant benefits for seniors, and it is much more affordable than the other long-term care options. Since adult day care offers a safe, engaging environment during the day and time with family and caregivers in the evening, it is also the option the provides the most autonomy for seniors.
Seniors will also love the structure, socialization, and the variety of engaging activities. These unique features of adult day care will help your senior live a happier, healthier life, well into their golden years.
Would your senior loved one benefit from expert adult day care in a warm, welcoming environment? The healthcare professionals at Northeast Adult Day Care can provide skilled care, monitoring, and social interaction for your loved one! Reach out to learn more, [email protected].