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Sometimes
called Adult Day Care, these programs offer socialization, activity
programs, and meals during the day for seniors who can't be left
alone, but who don't need nursing care. These programs allow
caregivers to work, or to get a needed break without worry and on a
regular basis.
Participants
can attend from a few hours once a week to five full days a week,
depending on caregiver needs. Some day programs are designed
specifically for individuals with Alzheimer's or other dementia, and
others are open to anyone who needs care.
Often
residential facilities will offer a day activity program as an
introduction to potential residents. Generally you'll have to
call around to see if any assisted living or nursing facility offers
adult activity programs care. Many churches are now beginning to offer
them.
The Alzheimer's Association will have information on programs
specializing in dementia.
Most don't
provide transportation, so you'll probably be responsible for
getting your loved one to and from the program. Some
communities offer door-to-door transportation for the disabled.
If your elder is able to get on and off the bus reliably this
can be a great help.
Not all adult
activity programs are equal. Unless the program accepts Medicaid or other
public funds there might not be any supervision of the program by a
state regulatory agency. Always ask for
references and check them out. Ask geriatric professionals in
your community for their evaluation. And then, of course, every
caregiver should visit
more than once before enrolling.
5 Steps To Choosing The Best Adult Day Program |
