The social, recreational, and rehabilitative services provided for persons who require daytime supervision.
Assistance, ranging from health car to social programs, for older people who continue to live in their homes. Services may include health assessment; physical, occupational, or speech therapy; and hot, nourishing meals. Day care centers provide older adults opportunities for companionship with peers and recreational activities. They also provide respite for caregivers. Centers usually operate on weekdays during business hours. Often, transportation is provided. Many adult day care centers are subsidized by voluntary or public organizations, such as civic or religious groups, hospitals, and senior centers. Services are often provided free or on a sliding scale. When full fees are charged, community organizations often sponsor those who cannot afford to pay. Medicaid may cover a portion of the costs in some states, depending on a person’s eligibility.
A licensed agency where chronically ill, disabled, or cognitively impaired persons can stay during the day under health care supervision. Most people who attend adult day care are older and need some assistance with care. They are able to participate in structured activities programs and to ambulate with or without an assistive device. Most day care centers operate 5 days a week for 8 to 12 hr a day.