Adult day services provide daytime care and support to seniors who cannot otherwise be alone. This benefits seniors by providing socialization and stimulation in a safe environment while giving families and caregivers a break. Ask these questions when choosing adult day services for your loved one.
Choosing adult day services
Costs
- How much do you charge for adult day services?
- Are fees billed weekly or monthly?
- Is there a per hour or per day rate?
- What is included in the costs?
- What is the payment policy for missed days?
- When is payment due?
- What payment methods do you accept?
- Do you offer any type of financial assistance or payment plans?
- Are any of your services covered by Medicaid, Medicare Advantage plans, or other types of insurance?
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The facilities and services
- How long have you been in business?
- Is your center licensed, certified, or accredited?
- During what days and hours do you provide care?
- Are there attendance requirements or are drop-ins welcome?
- What is the policy for late-arrivals or pick-ups?
- Do you offer transportation to and from the center?
- What is the staff-to-client ratio?
- What type of training must staff members have?
- Do staff undergo background checks?
- Do you enlist volunteers, and do they get background checks?
- Can staff administer medication?
- Are any types of therapy (e.g., physical, speech, occupational) offered on-site?
- What happens if my relative has a medical emergency?
- Is staff equipped to care for clients with memory loss patients such as those with Alzheimer’s and other dementias?
Notice when touring the facility
- Do clients seem engaged and content?
- Are the facilities clean?
- Do spaces smell clean and pleasant?
- Is the atmosphere relaxing or are there stressful elements – loud noises, unfriendly staff, clutter?
Staff
- What type of assistance is offered to clients (e.g., eating, toileting, administering medication)?
- Do you offer any ancillary services (e.g., bathing, hair styling, transportation to and from appointments)?
- What types of activities do you provide to engage clients?
- Do you take clients on outings? If so, how are they transported?
- What types of meals and snacks are provided?
- Where is food prepared/delivered?
- Can you accommodate special dietary needs or restrictions?
- What is the employee sick policy?
- What is the typical daily schedule?
- How will you encourage my family member to participate in activities?
- How do you ensure the safety and security of clients?
- What items are clients allowed to bring with them?
- How do you communicate with family members to provide updates on clients?