Evaluating an Adult Day Health Program

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May 17, 2021

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Evaluating an Adult Day Health Program
Adult day health (ADH) programs provide professional care and companionship for older adults and adults living with cognitive or medical challenges. ADH programs include a variety of health, social and support services in a safe, caring environment.
When searching for an ADH Center for your loved one its important to look for licensed and accredited programs. Youll also want to find a center that is local, affordable and offers the right level of care for your loved one.

Local

Its best to find an adult day health provider that is close to your home or work and has hours suited to your schedule. You may also want a program that offers transportation to and from the center.


Affordable

While other options including in-home health and nursing home care are typically more expensive than adult day health programs, you want to ensure that the program you select is affordable and fits within your budget.


Level of Care

Each ADH center offers its own unique programming. Youll want to evaluate potential ADH programs on the activities they offer participants, health monitoring, nursing care and physical therapy services, nutrition offerings and services and accommodations for physically or visually impaired.
While most ADH centers offers some level of the above services, youll also want to ensure that the program offers support services tailored for you and your loved one.
Caregiver Support
Seeking support and maintaining your own health are key to managing your role as a caregiver. Many adult day health programs offer caregiver resources that provide information and referral services to support the care of your loved one.

Inclusive Environment
Massachusetts became the first state in the country to require all state-funded or licensed providers of services to older adults complete training in how to provide meaningful care of LGBT older adults and ensure lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender adults can access services.
Finding and selecting the right ADH program for you and your loved one can be daunting. Make sure you contact the centers you are interested in to discuss their program offerings and services. Visit the centers in person and observe the atmosphere, daily activities and staff interactions with participants.


This article was submitted by Michelle Holmberg, MA, the director of services for Cooperative Elder Services, Inc., CESI operates four centers in Eastern Massachusetts that focus on the holistic approach outlined above, empowering seniors to age in place. Michelle may be reached at 781-863-1166 or by email at [email protected].

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