Maximizing Senior Care: Is Adult Daycare Right for You?

Our aging parents are living longer, and as they navigate their advanced years, they face challenges that may not have crossed our minds. Loneliness sets in as spouses and friends depart, isolation makes even simple tasks harder, and dependence on others becomes a new reality. While traditional options like home health care, assisted living centers, and nursing homes exist, a rising star in senior care is the adult daycare center.

Understanding Adult Daycare Centers

Adult daycare centers are well-managed facilities with planned programs catering to your loved one’s needs. They offer social interaction, nutritious meals (even for those with special diets), and routine health services. These centers are not equipped for round-the-clock care but provide an opportunity for senior adults to engage with their community. For caregivers, they offer respite and a chance to run errands or rest.

Services Offered

A reputable adult daycare center offers opportunities for seniors to exercise, socialize, and stay active. Typical services include arts and crafts, entertainment like music and plays, mentally stimulating games like BINGO, light exercise programs such as Tai Chi, book clubs, and local outings. Some centers also provide transportation, counseling, support groups, and healthcare services like blood pressure monitoring and vision/hearing screenings.

What Adult Daycare Centers Don’t Offer

It’s essential to understand that adult daycare centers do not provide extensive healthcare services unless they are labeled as Adult Day Health Care Centers. These specialized facilities offer physical and speech therapy, more intensive medical monitoring, and have registered nurses and/or physicians on staff. If your loved one requires this level of care, inquire before enrolling.

When to Consider Adult Daycare

The decision to seek assistance for your loved one can be challenging. Consider these criteria:

• They struggle with daily activities.
• They experience social isolation and crave companionship.
• They cannot be safely left alone.
• They live alone or with someone who is frequently absent.

Costs of Adult Daycare Centers

The cost of adult day care centers varies by location and services provided, averaging around $64 per day. Adult day health care centers typically cost more. However, many adult daycare centers offer sliding-scale fees based on income. While Medicare does not cover these fees, Medicaid may provide financial support based on low income and few assets. Some private medical insurance policies and long-term care insurance may also cover adult daycare costs. Caregivers may even be eligible for dependent-care tax credits.

Exploring Financial Assistance

Understanding available financial assistance options is crucial. Properly structuring your loved one’s estate and assets can significantly impact the assistance they qualify for.

Planning for Your Loved One’s Care

Initiating the selection process involves thorough knowledge of available options. Consider scheduling a Family Wealth Planning Session to discuss your situation and explore potential solutions. Call today to start planning for your loved one’s care.