Adult Day Care for Seniors
Day care can provide caregivers with a much needed break, so they can provide better care to seniors.
For older adults, it can be helpful to develop a relationship with a pharmacist and use the same pharmacist regularly. As pharmacists learn about an individual’s unique needs and circumstances, they can help provide consistent care and help prevent drug-related problems. Pharmacists are often the most accessible health care practitioner. They can give patients drug information, monitor use and act as a liaison between physicians and patients. Additionally, they can provide information on interactions between drugs, other medications, supplements and food.
What is adult day care?
Day care provides seniors with an opportunity to socialize and engage in recreational activities while at the same time, giving the caregiver a much needed break to relax, run errands, take care of appointments, and complete other tasks.
Who is adult day care good for?
There are three different kinds (agingcare.com) of adult day care:
This is for adults who are relatively independent but could use some supervised activities to enrich their quality of life. Activities could include arts and crafts, exercise programs, games and musical activities. Seniors can participate in the majority of activities on their own, while staff provides assistance. Staff can also give medication reminders, but not administer it.
ADHC is for seniors who have more serious medical conditions and require skilled nursing care or therapy services. Staff are licensed and can administer medication and provide occupational, speech and physical therapy in addition to other recreational activities for the seniors to enjoy.
This specialized day care is tailored to meet the unique physical, emotional and mental needs of seniors living with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Staff are trained in dementia care to work with individuals with memory and cognitive loss. This specialized day care allows seniors with Alzheimer’s and dementia to socialize and participate in activities such as music, fitness, arts and crafts and puzzles. They can also provide support for families.
Activities and Services of daycare
A good day care facility should offer a variety of activities and seniors including:
• Arts and crafts
• Musical activities
• Audiology
• Counseling
• Exercise classes
• Personal care
• Memory and cognition therapy
• Hair and beauty services
• Massage therapy
• Volunteer and community service programs
• Medication management
• Nutrition and meal services
• Occupational therapy
• Oxygen therapy
• Family support
The price of adult day care varies, depending on the location and type and can range from $40 to $120 (seniorliving.org) per day. If the senior qualifies for Medicaid, then Medicaid may pay for the day care, especially if the senior would require full-time nursing care otherwise. If the senior is a veteran, then VA benefits will pay for adult day health care (payingforseniorcare.com), but not adult day care . Individuals may also choose to pay with long-term care insurance or cashing in on life insurance policies. It can also be paid out of pocket.
Home Care Tip:
Adult day care can provide caregivers with a much needed break to run errands, relax, or focus on other tasks. It’s okay to get some respite. Caregivers should remember that they can provide better care to seniors after they feel revived.