IN Mars Area Winter 2016 | Page 39

Visiting an adult day care center
Spend a day at the adult day care center that
sounds best to you, so you can get a “feel” for
the people and the environment. Also, check
out references. Talk to others who have used
the adult day care center and ask for their
opinions.
You may wish to try out different adult day
care centers a few times each to see whether
your experience on different days confirms
your initial impressions. Be sure to bring the
following site visit checklist with you each
time.
Adult day care center site visit checklist:
• Did you feel welcome?
• Were the center services and activities
properly explained?
• Were you given information regarding
staffing, programming, and costs?
• Is the facility clean, pleasant, and free of
odor?
• Is the building and site wheelchair
accessible?
• Is the furniture sturdy and comfortable?
• Are there loungers and chairs with arms
for relaxation?
• Is there a quiet place in the center?
• Did the staff and participants seem
cheerful and comfortable?
• Are participants involved in planning
activities?
Source: National Adult Day Services Association
(NADSA)

Costs and financial assistance
for adult day care
In the U.S., the average cost for an adult day
care center is about $64 per day, depending on
where you live and the services provided (e.g.,
meals, transportation, nursing supervision).
Professional health care services will mean
higher fees. Many facilities offer services on a
sliding fee scale, meaning that what you pay is
based on your income and ability to pay.
While Medicare does not cover adult day
care centers, Medicaid will pay most or all
of the costs in licensed adult day health care
settings and Alzheimer’s-focused centers for
participants with very low income and few
assets. Be sure to ask about financial assistance
and possible scholarships.
Private medical insurance policies
sometimes cover a portion of adult day
care center costs when licensed medical
professionals are involved in the care. Longterm care insurance may also pay for adult
day services, depending on the policy.
Additionally, dependent-care tax credits may
be available to the caregiver. n
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