Adult day care offers seniors and those with disabilities professional care, socialization, and enrichment opportunities in community-based group settings. If you have a loved one who is aging in place, these programs can be the perfect care supplement as they may allow family caregivers respite! Adult day care can also be useful for seniors who often feel isolated or depressed. Though each service is a little different, there are essentially three main types to know about: social adult day care, adult day health care (ADHC), and specialized adult day care.
Social Adult Day Care
Social adult day care focuses on enrichment, recreation, and socialization. Facilities that offer social care will feature engaging activities, therapeutic exercises, and mental stimulation. Here are the most common features to expect from the social model:
- Creative enrichment through art and music
- Mentally stimulating activities such as games and group discussions
- Local outings and community-involved recreation (i.e. picnics or helping out at a community garden)
- Group exercise
- Meals and snacks
- ADL assistance
- Light to moderate health supports such as blood pressure screening and medication reminders
Who is social adult day care for? Participants are encouraged to connect with others and stay active! This type of program best suits the needs of those who are lonely or perhaps have a primary caregiver who works outside of the home. This is also a great option for respite and for those who may have disabilities related to memory.
Adult Day Health Care (ADHC)
Adult day health care (ADHC) provides both social activities and more intensive medical services. These programs typically offer physical, occupational, and speech therapies and are staffed with nurses and other health professionals. Here are the most common features to expect from the health care model:
- On-site nurses
- Medication management
- Creative enrichment through art and music
- Mentally stimulating activities such as games and group discussions
- Meals and snacks
- Personal care assistance including ADL and IADL (i.e. eating, grooming, continence care, transfers, etc.)
Who is ADHC for? ADHC programs are for older adults who have chronic conditions, more advanced impairments, or may have recently experienced an illness or injury that requires continued care.
Specialized Adult Day Care
Specialized adult day care programs provide services for those with specific conditions or needs. Some facilities will specialize in memory care while others may cater to adults with developmental disabilities. Here are the most common features to expect from the specialized care model:
- Creative enrichment through art and music
- Mentally stimulating activities and games like BINGO or cards
- Exercise such as yoga
- On-site nurses
- Medication management
- Meals and snacks
- Secure environment
Who is specialized adult day care for? These programs are made for older adults who have cognitive or physical impairments. Because the staff is trained to care for memory-specific needs, those with Alzheimer’s or dementia may benefit greatly from this model. Also, facilities are designed to keep participants safe from wandering.
When you’re ready to look for a care program…
If you’re ready to choose an adult day care, then check out our directory!
Not quite what you’re looking for? Then read more about aging in place and home care.
