IN Millcreek Winter 2016 | Page 59

• 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. Long-term 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
© Helpguide.org. Helpguide.org is a trusted nonprofit guide to mental health and
well-being.

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?

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