What is Adult Day Care? An Essential Resource for Family Caregivers

What You Have HeardAsk yourself, was the info you heard from a Certified Medicaid Planner?Medicaid Misconception #1 - You can only have $2,000.FACTSSingle applicants have a resource limit of $2,000. (in 2024) A married applicant has a resource limit of about $150,000. (in 2024)Medicaid Misconception #2 - Your home will be taken from you if you are on Medicaid.FACTSAll applicants are allowed to have 1 home and 1 car. There are ways to avoid Medicaid estate recovery, an applicant can receive Medicaid and keep their home.Medicaid Misconception #3 - You make too much money.FACTS If you are over the income limit, Beneficent can provide the legal steps using the Medicaid code to bypass being over the income limit.Medicaid Misconception #4 - You must spend down to $2,000 to qualify for Medicaid.FACTSThis is an option, however not your only option. If you want to preserve the hard-earned assets you or your loved one has worked their entire life, you can!Medicaid Misconception #5 - Why doesnt everyone apply for Long-term Care Medicaid if the other outcome statements are true?FACTSMany are deceived by misinformation and preconceived notions. There's a game-changer you need to know about - Certified Medicaid Planners (CMP) - we know the rules and regulations.You can find all the CMPs in the United States here, (https://cmpboard.org/locate-a-cmp/)  there arent too many of us! Need to schedule an appointment with one of our Certified Medicaid Planners at Beneficent? Book here (https://calendly.com/doinggoodforothers) or call our office (719.645.8350) for more appointment times.

In the heart of every family caregivers journey lies the challenge of making difficult decisions that are in the best interest of their loved ones, especially when it involves introducing new routines such as adult day.The initial resistance encapsulated in sentiments like My dad or my husband wouldnt like adult day care. Its just not for him. He wouldnt like something like that, is a common obstacle many families face.Yet, overcoming this hesitation is not just possible; it can open doors to enriching experiences that enhance the quality of life for both caregivers and their loved ones. Heres how to gently navigate these waters and turn reluctance into acceptance.Understanding the ResistanceFirst, its crucial to understand why there might be resistance to adult day care. For many older adults, the idea of adult day may conjure feelings of lossloss of independence, familiarity, and control over their daily lives. Its also possible that misconceptions about what adult day is might be at the heart of their resistance.Educating and ReassuringEducation is a powerful tool in overcoming objections. Begin by gathering information about local adult day programs, focusing on aspects that align with your loved ones interests and needs.Many centers offer a variety of activities, including physical exercises, art classes, music therapy, and social events that can be highly beneficial and enjoyable for members. This may even include woodworking, racing RC cars, playing poker or other fun activities that cater to different individual needs.Share stories and testimonials from other families who have had positive experiences with adult day care. Hearing about others who had similar reservations but ended up thriving can be incredibly reassuring.Its also helpful to emphasize the benefits that come with adult day, such as social interaction, enhanced mental stimulation, and the opportunity to maintain or even improve cognitive and physical abilities.Personalization and InvolvementPersonalize the approach by involving your loved one in the process as much as possible. Discuss what activities they might enjoy and select a club that offers these options. Some centers may allow you to customize a schedule or participate in free trial days, which can help ease the transition.Address Emotional ConcernsAcknowledge and validate your loved ones feelings about adult day care. Its important to have open and honest conversations about their fears and concerns. Reassure them of your support and the positive aspects of adult day, highlighting how it can enhance their independence rather than diminish it.Gradual IntroductionConsider a gradual introduction to adult day. Starting with a few half-days a week can help ease the transition and reduce anxiety. This approach allows your loved one to slowly adjust to the new environment and routine while giving them the opportunity to see the benefits firsthand.Emphasize FlexibilityRemind your loved one (and yourself) that decisions arent set in stone. Emphasizing the flexibility to change plans or adjust schedules can help alleviate some of the pressure and make the idea of adult day care less daunting. Overcoming the objection to adult day care requires patience, understanding, and a gentle approach. By educating, reassuring, and involving your loved one in the decision-making process, you can help them see adult day care not as a loss, but as an opportunity to enhance their life.Remember, the goal is to support their well-being and independence in a way that respects their preferences and needs. With the right approach, adult day care can become a positive experience that enriches the lives of all involved. Caring for a loved one? We are here to help, whether you need help at home or need a little break during the day! Take a break and enjoy peace of mind knowing your loved one is having the time of their life! ActivAge Senior Care, offers Daytime Senior Care and In-Home Care. To learn more, please call (941) 205-7722 or visit ActivAgeCare.com. Port Charlotte: 3626 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte, FL 33952, Sarasota: 3801 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, FL 34233. Home Care:  Serving Charlotte & Sarasota County

In a world increasingly embracing digitization, the effects of isolation on the health and wellbeing of adults, especially the elderly, are becoming a significant concern. The lack of social contact can result in a multitude of health issues, both physically and mentally.This blog will highlight the health risks associated with isolation and discuss the benefits of adult day care centers in promoting socialization to counteract these risks. Isolation and its Health RisksThe health consequences of isolation are more serious than one might assume. Chronic loneliness can lead to a host of physical and mental health problems including:1. Depression and AnxietyIsolation can lead to increased feelings of loneliness and low self-esteem, culminating in severe depression and anxiety disorders.2. Cognitive DeclineResearch indicates a strong connection between social isolation and cognitive decline, including an increased risk of Alzheimers disease.3. Heart Disease and StrokeLoneliness is often associated with an increased risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.4. Weakened Immune SystemProlonged isolation can cause stress and lead to a weakened immune system, making individuals more susceptible to illnesses and infections. The Role of Adult Day Care in Reducing Isolation RisksAdult day care centers offer a powerful solution to these health risks. These centers are designed to provide a safe, engaging, and social environment for adults who need assistance during the day. Here are four ways these centers help reduce the risks associated with isolation:1. Promotes Social InteractionAdult day care centers are hubs of social activity. They provide a setting where adults can engage in conversations, share meals, and participate in group activities. This interaction helps to reduce feelings of loneliness and promotes mental wellbeing.2. Stimulates Cognitive FunctionAdult day care centers often provide mentally engaging activities like puzzles, games, and discussions that help stimulate cognitive function. This can delay the onset of cognitive decline and improve overall mental health.3. Supports Physical HealthMany adult day care centers have exercise programs and activities aimed at maintaining and improving physical health. Regular exercise can reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and boost the immune system.4. Provides Emotional SupportStaff at adult day care centers are trained to provide emotional support to their participants. This can greatly reduce feelings of depression and anxiety, enhancing the overall mental health of attendees. In conclusion, socialization is vital for maintaining the health and wellbeing of adults, and adult day care centers provide an essential service in promoting this interaction.With the combined benefits of social engagement, cognitive stimulation, physical activity, and emotional support, these centers can drastically reduce the risks associated with prolonged isolation. They not only ensure a healthier life but also a happier one for those under their care.