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KEY POINTS
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There are 2 types of adult day care programs available outside the home for adults who need care or supervision.
Adult day care offers a safe place to spend the day with other people. Programs provide activities and meals. Some provide transportation to and from the center. Adult day care programs are available from 1 to 5 days a week. They are usually day-long but some may offer half-day programs.
Meals and snacks may be served. Activities are scheduled throughout the day. They may include exercises, games, gardening, cooking, discussion groups, art, music, and trips. Some programs provide activities that involve children as well. Programs try to plan interesting activities for both men and women.
In some cases, day care staff may give medicine to people who are unable to take it themselves. Services may also include physical, occupational, or speech therapy. Programs may be available to help people who have:
Medicare does not pay for day care. Medicaid may help pay for the cost of adult day healthcare. Insurance companies may pay for adult day care if a healthcare provider states that the person would otherwise need to live in a nursing facility. Check your healthcare insurance policy to see if it will pay for adult day care.
Choose an adult day care center that provides the level of care needed. There should be 1 caretaker for every 4 to 6 adults. The center should provide a variety of activities. Tour the center to ensure that it is clean and safe. Ask for references. After you choose an adult care center, plan visits on different days and at different times to be sure the level of care is what you expect. If you are choosing an ADHC, a nurse and a social worker should be on the staff.