-
Adult day care centers provide supervision to those who need it. - Typically, adult day care centers do not have medical regulations or requirements. Adult day services are for seniors who require some assistance and it allows caregivers more freedom; however, those seniors who require continual medical assistance or supervision may not be right for adult day care centers. In general, adult day services offer social activities, meals and snacks, help with personal care and grooming and therapeutic activities. Some centers specialize in care for clients with specific needs, such as those with dementia or disabilities.
- Regulations on adult care centers are different in every state. Most states require a license or certification in accordance with state standards. Some states require just a license, some just a certification and four states require both a license and certification. Thirteen states require adult care centers to get approval from, or enter into an agreement with, a state agency. As such, medical regulations will vary according to state law and the level of care being provided by the center.
- Adult day care centers can range from $40 a day, to more than $100 per day, depending on services offered, the faculties and the location. The national average cited by the National Adult Day Services Association is $61 per day. Adult day services is not usually covered by Medicare, although some aid may be available through state or federal programs, such as benefits paid to veterans through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
- Although most adult day services limit the amount of medical care offered, there may be some benefits including blood pressure testing, annual immunizations and dental check-ups. These services may require additional fees. If considering adult day services, it may be helpful to ask if the center will dispense medicine, provide bathroom assistance or work with wheelchair-restricted clients if these services are needed.
- The benefits of adult day care to caregivers can be enormous. By having a center to oversee seniors during the day, a caregiver can keep a job outside the home, the center can provide "time away" to avoid caregiver burnout and adult day services can prevent a loved one from being placed in a permanent 24-hour facility.
