When to opt for an adult day care center
As a senior, it can be challenging to admit that you need help, especially if you’ ve been a highly independent person used to caring for others all your life. And if you’ re the caregiver, it may be equally difficult to consider allowing“ strangers” to care for your beloved family member.
As with any service, the best time to start exploring what’ s available is before you actually need it. According to ElderCare Online, you should seriously consider using adult day care when a senior:
• Can no longer structure his or her own daily activities
• Is isolated and desires companionship
• Can’ t be safely left alone at home
• Lives with someone who works outside the home or who is frequently away from home for other reasons
Finding the right adult day care center for your family’ s needs
The National Adult Day Services Association( NADSA) recommends you start by asking yourself what specific services both the senior adult and the caregiver need most. For the day care participant, are social activities primary? Assistance with walking, eating or medications? Mental stimulation? Exercise? As a caregiver, is support what you need most? Some free time? Help with transportation? Answering these questions will help you determine which of the three main types of adult day care centers( social, health-focused, and Alzheimer’ s / dementia oriented) will best serve you.
Where to locate adult day care centers
For assistance in finding a local center, you can try:
• Your family doctor
• Local social services or health department
• Mental health centers
• Local senior center
• Area Agency on Aging in the U. S.( Call 1.800.677.1116 for the AAA in your area.)
• Yellow Pages listings under Adult Day Care, Aging Services, Senior Citizens’ Services, and similar categories
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Sewickley | Winter 2016 | icmags. com 41