Educate Yourself on Adult Day Care

Many caregivers feel reluctant to use adult day care services becaues they seem unfamilar, or because a loved one os hesitant to try something new. However, there are many different resources out there that can help you become more familiar with the services and help that adult day care centers offer to the elderly and their loved ones.

According to an article from helpguide.org, "Adult day care is a planned programs of activities designed to promote well-being through social and health related services." Think of it's function, exactly as the name describes; 'day care,' or mental/social stimulation for adults, ie, those who can no longer manage independently, or who are isolated and lonely.

There are approximately 4,000 adult day care centers nationwide, according to the National Adult Day Services Association (NADSA). The intent of an adult day care center is primarily two-fold:
1. To provide older adults an opportunity to get out of the house and receive both mental and social stimulation
2. To give caregivers a much-needed break in which to attend to personal needs, or simply rest and relax

As read in the text, adult day care centers are generally grouped into two categories, social day care and health day care. John Pratt, the author of "Long Term Care- Managing Across the Continuum" goes into detail describing the different services the each of these two day care models offer to their clients and families.

The social model has been around since the 1970's and is the original form of adult day care. It provides consumers with relief from boredom and loneliness, conditions that can lead to feelings of isolation and depression. Services focus on socialization and recreation and may range from group singing and bingo to more challenging activities, depending on the cognitive levels of those participating.

Below are some of the activities that may be available:

• Arts and crafts
• Musical entertainment and sing-a-longs
• Mental stimulation games such as BINGO, Scrabble, and card games
• Stretching or other gentle exercise
• Discussion groups about books, films, or current events
• Holiday and birthday celebrations
• Local outings to restaurants, stores, theater, or other community entertainment

Some centers even offer programs that include children. The Friendship Center in California developed the GOLD Project, describe as "An innovate intergenerational program embracing growing older with grace and dignity." Elders visit local classrooms and share their lifestyle experiences with the children, educading and enlivening both groups in the process. I personally feel that the GOLD Project is a great way to help enrich the American history lessons that many of our nation's students learn about. Our aging population would be able to give great first hand accounts to the way life was as they were growing up in the 40's, 50's, and 60's.

The healthcare model of adult day care helps those who need more time and treatment than regular social day care centers could offer. These centers offer administration of medication, blood pressure monitoring, and other medical evaluation for their clients as well as some social events.

Whichever model of adult care chosen, certain basic services are provided. These include: safe & secure environment; social and recreational activities; assistance with ADLs; at least one nutritious meal and an additional snack; transportation to and from the center; and cosumers and caregivers are served.

Adult day care offers a win/win situation for everyone in the family - not only the client or member who attends the program, but also for the family member who has primary responsibility as caregiver. While it may be challenging to admit you may need help caring for your loved one, there is nothing wrong with asking for assistance or looking into the use adult day care facilities.

The National Adult Day Services Association (http://www.nadsa.org/) recommends you look into centers that provide specific services that you feel best fit what you and your loved one need. There are many resources and references that can be utilized when trying to locate an adult day care center in your area. Your family doctor or local health department/local social services offices are great tools to use when trying to find an adult day care center; You can also call 1-800-677-1116 for the Area Agency on Aging in your area.