We love our parents and grandparents and want only the best for them as they continue to age and as their needs change. What worked last year might not be a viable solution this year. Maybe it’s the early signs (or not so early signs) of dementia or an increasingly weaker bone mass that makes them prone to falls. Either way, it’s difficult to see our parents or other aging loved ones surrender their independence.
That’s one reason why so many opt for adult daycare centers. It allows your loved ones to maintain their independence and dignity while also providing the peace of mind of knowing a doctor or other healthcare provider is always on site. Our loved ones aren’t alone when we can’t be there. Supervision or assistance or just keeping contemporaries nearby for companionship are just a few reasons why many families have found this to be an invaluable solution.
Social Skills
We now know, courtesy of many recent studies, that added socialization can delay the advancement of diseases and can keep the mind sharp. These goals are easily met within alternative care facilities. From a psychological stance, self-esteem improves, health improves and seniors enjoy a richer life.
Adult day health care provides more assistance from a health angle. The goal is to delay or prevent institutionalization by providing alternative care to enhance self-esteem and to encourage socialization.
A few services that are typically included in these types of programs:
- Exercise
- Health Screening
- Physical Therapy
- Education Opportunities
- Meals
- Medical Care (in many instances, seniors can learn more about holistic approaches, how our diets affect our overall health and even cooking as therapy)
What You Should Know
Adult day care centers each have their own unique offerings. Many are open only during normal business hours while others offer opportunities over into the evening hours. Many will arrange the social activities while others will encourage the groups to decide for themselves how they might spend an afternoon. Many offer spiritual guidance and most all provide transportation to area churches so that everyone might be able to attend services of their own faith. You’ll want to interview any facility you and your loved one might be considering.
Proceed with Caution
It’s important to remember that not all states require any kind of legal compliance. Regulations are sometimes nonexistent, making it that much more important to conduct due diligence. Ask friends and neighbors if they’ve had any experience and be sure to speak with Mom’s physician to ensure any potential problems are handled. With more of us aging in place these days, ensuring their independence is just one way we can defeat any number of potential problems.
To learn more about your options, contact our offices today. There may be resources you’re unaware of. We stand ready to help.
Daniel DeBruyckere
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