How to Research Adult Day Care Centers

Published on 03/27/2013

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Your elderly loved one is a good candidate for adult day care if he or she:

  • Could benefit from forging new friendships.

  • Needs assistance and monitoring while you’re out.

  • Is mentally or cognitively challenged, but doesn’t require 24-hour care.

  • Is in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease.

  • Can get around independently or with the aid of a wheelchair, walker, or cane.

Once you know that adult day care is right for your loved one, use this senior living guide to help you know what to look for when researching this type of senior living community.

Find Adult Day Care Centers in Your Area

Before you can compare options, you must find local centers. Use these tips:

  • Ask the family doctor.

  • Check with social services or the health department.

  • Call the local senior center(s).

  • Search the Yellow Pages under “adult day care,” “aging services,” “senior citizen services” or something similar.

  • Use Google or other search engines to search the Internet.

  • Find communities on Facebook and other social sites.

Questions to Ask Adult Day Care Centers

When you find a few centers to consider, as the following questions via email or a phone call:

  • Are you sponsored? If so, by whom?

  • How long have you been in operation?

  • Are you licensed and certified? (This may be required in your state.)

  • What are your days/hours of operation?

  • What transportation options exist?

  • What are the staff’s credentials?

  • What is the ratio of staff members to participants?

Learn about Activities/Services Provided

Some of the most in-demand offerings at adult day care include:

  • Arts and crafts

  • Music and sing-a-longs

  • Games for mental stimulation, such as bingo

  • Gentle exercise routines

  • Discussion groups

  • Birthday celebrations

  • Group outings

Make sure the items most important to your elderly loved one are offered by the adult day care you choose.

Before you make a final decision, visit the adult day care in person to assess staff members and the environment. By choosing the right facility, your elderly loved one will enjoy a safe place to spend the day, improve their mental and physical health, and make new friends.

Visit Alternatives for Seniors to find senior living communities ranging from independent communities and senior living apartments to assisted living and nursing & rehabilitation centers. Then, join us on Facebook and Twitter for the latest news and information on senior living.