Adult Day Care: What Familys Need to Know

 

Adult day care programs can provide caregivers with a needed break while giving older people a chance to socialize with their peers and alleviate the isolation and loneliness that many experience.

Although traditional community senior centers can be a great place for relatively healthy older people to exercise or take classes, adult day care centers serve those with physical or cognitive disabilities who may need more supervision and services. More than half of older attendees at adult day care facilities have cognitive impairment, according to the National Adult Day Services Association (NADSA), an industry group.

Evidence shows that older people who attend these centers have a better quality of life. We found that they provided health-related, social, psychological and behavioral benefits for participants, particularly those with dementia and other cognitive impairments.

Who provides adult day care?

Adult day care centers vary in their programs and services, but most offer therapeutic exercise, brain stimulation for clients, social activities appropriate for their condition and help with personal care, such as grooming and using the toilet. Facilities often provide meals and snacks, including special diets for those who need them, and door-to-door transportation.

 

24 Hour In Home Care (Shifts)

 

The benefit of having 24 hour home care is that a caregiver will be with a client at all times. Having two or three caregivers means that there will always be someone supervising the client – whether it’s the middle of the afternoon or the middle of the night. Some people prefer this option as they believe caregivers are more refreshed and alert since there is at least one caregiver rotation in a 24 hour period. There is also the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’ll always have someone ready to take care of any situations or needs that may arise at any time throughout the 24-hour period.

 

Live In Care

 

This option is just how it sounds. One or more caregivers would tend to your loved one during the day and sleep in the home at night, making them more accessible when needed. These caregivers will sleep in the home and awaken at night to assist your loved one. You would provide the caregiver with sleeping quarters. For the client who cannot be alone due to conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer’s but may not need constant medical care, live-in services may be the best option. The hours and type of care provided can be tailored to meet your loved one’s specific needs, giving family members assurance that their loved one is looked after at all times.