by: Melanie Farley
At work, you try to concentrate, but all you can think about is whether your elderly mother is safe by herself at home. Realistically, she needs constant supervision, but you must work. What can you do?
There are about 7,500 adult day centers across the country. Adult day centers offer caregivers a chance to attend to their responsibilities while their older loved ones have an engaging, safe place to spend time. National Adult Day Services Week is from September 15-21, so in this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about adult day care.
What are adult day services? And, how do you know if adult day care right for you? Read on to find out!
What Is Adult Day Care?
Pennsylvania Adult Day Services defines an adult day care as: “A community-based center designed to assist in meeting the complex medical, physical, social, and emotional needs of people with multiple functional limitations.”
Typically, seniors attend adult day care during the day and return home to their caregivers in the evening. So, adult day centers provide massive benefits for seniors and caregivers alike because they provide safe, engaging, environments for seniors while offering caregivers a much-needed break.
What Services Are Offered?
Services can vary widely from center-to-center. So, it’s important to research each facility thoroughly to find one that suits your senior’s needs. Some common services include:
- Nursing and Personal Care Services
- Physical Therapy and Rehabilitative Services
- Structured Group Activities
- Meal and Nutrition Services
In Pennsylvania, PA Department of Aging and/or the PA Department of Human Services inspect day centers annually to ensure high-quality care.
Is Adult Day Care Right for You?
Adult day services are perfect for older or disabled adults who want to maintain some independence but require help with daily activities. Here are a few questions to ask yourself:
- Do you worry about your loved one’s safety home alone?
- Are you worried about your loved one’s health?
- Do you worry that your loved one is bored or depressed at home alone all day?
If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, then an adult day care might be the ideal solution for you and your family.
A Final Word…
Let’s celebrate National Adult Day Services Week this year; pass this article along to a friend who might need it. Although adult day care centers vary widely, they are the most affordable long-term care option for seniors.
As you explore day centers in your area, be sure to ask specific questions to address your senior’s needs. For example, do they offer transportation? Specialized meal plans? What kind of social activities are offered? Answers to these questions will help you find a center that is just right for you and your family.
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].