Senior Resource Specialist

If you are caring for a loved one with dementia or a chronic health issue, you may be wondering if an adult day program would be an appropriate solution. Here are some questions to help you assess your situation:Do you need occasional assistance taking care of your loved one?Are you worried about the persons safety when you aren't around?Are you leaving your loved one too often in order to do errands or go to work?Are you taking more time off work to care for your loved one?Would you feel better if he or she was able to enjoy a nutritious meal during the day, the opportunity to socialize more or to get more exercise?Has a good relationship with your loved one turned into a troubled one? Are arguments increasing?Is your loved one feeling isolated?If you can answer yes to even one of these questions, an adult day program might be the answer to your loved ones care needs. This can be a difficult decision. You may feel guilt and or that you are not taking care of your responsibility. But keep in mind that you also need time to take care of yourself and to run errands or hold down a job without worrying about how your family member is managing at home. You also need to relax and reenergize so that you can be at your best. For your loved one, feelings of anger, fear, denial and resistance are common first reactions at the idea of an adult day program. Understand that it may take time to make the adjustment. Here are some tips to help your loved one accept your decision:Give a convincing reason: Encourage your loved one to look at the program as her club, or a class. Schedule your family members visit when there is an activity she might enjoy. Ask your doctor and others to back you up.Take one step at a time. Don't push too hard; use a try-it-and-see approach.Be firm. Initially, the person may complain of being unhappy. Don't argue. Just assume your loved one will return on the next scheduled visit. Minimize or eliminate the choice to not attend.Start with a few short days.Reinforce the positive. The goal of a professional adult day program is to encourage learning, participation and maximization of existing skills. By following these tips you may improve the quality of life for you and your loved one.Editors Note: This article submitted by Lisa Neujahr, public relations specialist for Banner Health. Sources use for this article: National Alliance for Caregiving and the Alzheimer's Association.