If you are interested in obtaining adult day care for an elder in your care, investigate the day care center most convenient for you using the following guidelines.
* Is the center open during hours that meet your needs? Half day program? Full day program?
* Eligibility Requirements?
* Age?
* Elder's residence?
* Alzheimer's Disease patients accepted?
* What is the level of physical or mental incapacity that the center can handle?
* Is there a sliding fee scale?
* Is there an additional cost for Alzheimer's patients?
* Will Medicaid cover any of the cost?
Services Provided
The following is a list of services provided by many centers. Not all centers provide all services available.
* Social Services
* Transportation to center
* Transportation/other
* Medical assessment
* Medical treatment
* Podiatry
* Recreational therapy
* Art therapy
* Speech therapy
* Music therapy
* Reality therapy
* Physical therapy
* Occupational therapy
* Exercises
* Assistance dressing/grooming/using the toilet
* Bathing
* Meals at center
* Dietary counseling
* Nursing services
* Laundry
Remember: an adult day care center is not a baby sitting service. You are paying for a planned program of therapeutic activities relevant to your elder's needs. So plan on spending some time at the facility observing the programs and participants. Keep in mind the following questions:
* Are there established state-determined standards of day care? If so, does the facility meet them?
* Is the center clean, comfortable, and cheerful?
* Is the physical environment safe and accessible for people with disabilities?
* Are doorways wide enough and tables and toilets at the right height for people who use wheelchairs or walkers?
* Does the facility meet local fire, sanitation, and health codes?
* Are exits clearly marked, unobstructed, and easily opened from the inside?
* Are emergency procedures posted and easy to understand?
* Does the staff have appropriate qualifications and experience?
* Do staff members treat participants with care and sensitivity?
* Do the participants seem content and occupied with therapeutic and recreational activities?
* Does the center offer programs suitable for your elder's needs?
For more information or a list of other MFS Heritage Planning educational materials on helping your parents, contact your financial adviser.
© 1998 The Partnership Group, Inc.
MFS Fund Distributors, Inc.,
500 Boylston St., Boston, MA 02116
