Adult Daycare Standards

Adult day care facilities assist attendees with their medications.

Adults seeking appropriate care or assistance with medical conditions or disabilities that don't require constant physician monitoring may consider an adult day care facility. Adult day care services include routine health monitoring, general therapeutic activities, personal care services, supervision, and protection for those needing it for their own safety.

Participant Thresholds

Though guidelines vary from state to state, the maximum number of participants served by an adult day care facility is generally limited between three and five individuals before state licensure or certification is required. States vary more with regard to the maximum hours of service providers may render within a 24-hour period.

Who Can Be Served

Adult day care providers should meet the needs of each participant they accept. Skilled nurses and personal care attendants serve those who require counseling, health education, personal care, medication administration and physical rehabilitation. People who are functionally impaired without being homebound, yet require non-continuous supervision, often utilize adult day care services.

Safety Measures

To prevent slipping, adult day care facilities should have stair treads and sturdy handrails on all staircases. Adequate lighting should illuminate all stairways, ramps and porches. Floor surfaces should be non-abrasive, slip-resistant and highly durable, especially in high traffic areas; rugs covering hard-finished floors should possess a non-skid backing.

References

• Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation: Overview of Adult Day Services Regulations
• University of California, Riverside: Eldercare
• Department of Human Services: Adult Day Services Programs