Adult day care centers can be a God-send for caregivers looking for a much-needed break. These types of facilities provide care, companionship and supervision in a group setting. They also provide a recreational and social outlet for seniors who are feeling lonely or isolated at home. These centers typically operate Monday through Friday during business hours. Adult day care centers fall under three categories: those that emphasize social interaction, those that focus on health care and those that operate as special Alzheimer’s care centers.
Services provided include educational programs, physical activities, medication assistance, counseling and physical therapy. Social activities may consist of field trips, crafts, book clubs, games and parties. Meals are typically included, as well as transportation to and from the center. Adult day care can cost anywhere from $12 to $215 per day, according to a 2014 Genworth survey. A long-term or private health insurance policy or Medicaid may help pay for some of the cost. Medicare does not cover costs for adult day care.
You can contact your Area Agency of Aging or use the Eldercare Locator at the Eldercare.gov website to find more information on adult day care centers.
