Adult Day Health Services: How to Choose a Quality Program

Adult day health services help older adults retain their independence and quality of life in a community-based group setting, while their family caregivers benefit from a much-needed break to continue to work or attend to personal matters. For many individuals and families, daytime care is a welcome alternative to costly in-home or residential care. A well-managed program focuses on enriching the participants’ lives by building upon individual interests and abilities, providing opportunities for socialization, stimulating activities, and new friendships.

Step 1: Determine Your Needs

Make a list of the features and services that are important to you and your loved one. Specific services that may be important: YES NO

Assistance with eating, walking, transferring, and/or using the toilet Nursing services – medication management, breathing treatments, insulin injections, etc.

Physical, speech, or occupational therapies

Health monitoring – blood pressure, blood sugar, etc. Personal care – bathing, shaving, hair care, incontinence care, foot care, etc. A safe, secure environment Fun, therapeutic activities New learning opportunities Nutritious meals and snacks Special diets Exercise Mental stimulation Caregiver support and education

YES NO

Step 2: Begin the Search

See a statewide list of area providers at www.ok.gov/health. Once you have a list of adult day health centers in your area, it is recommended that you visit each center’s website or call and request a flier or brochure. The next step in your search will be to compile questions to ask when you visit the centers you are considering. Here are some suggested questions to get you started:

Is the center a nonprofit or for-profit organization? Who is the owner or sponsoring agency of the center? How many years has the center been in operation? Is the center licensed by the Oklahoma State Department of Health?

Is the center nationally accredited by CARF (Commission on the Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities)? What are the days and hours of operation? Is transportation assistance available? Are health services available (e.g., nursing care, medication management and physical, occupational, or speech therapies)? What is the cost (hourly or daily rates)? Are there additional charges? Is financial assistance available? Are there any restrictions to enrollment (e.g., age, health conditions, limited mobility, memory loss, incontinence)? Do they offer personal care (e.g., assisted showers, shaving, hair care, foot care, incontinence care)? Does the center offer different levels of care? Are nutritious meals provided? Can they accommodate special dietary needs? What are the staff credentials? What is the staff-to-participant ratio? What kind of activities do they offer? Are there both group and individual activities? Is the location convenient to either home or work?

Step 3: Pay a Visit

Make an appointment to meet with the staff and tour the centers on your list. Spend some time in the center to get a feel for the people and the program. Consider staying for lunch to evaluate the food and staff/participant interaction.

Did you feel welcome? Did someone spend time finding out what you and your loved one want and need? Did someone clearly explain what services and activities the center provides? Did they present information about staffing, program procedures, and costs? Is the center clean, pleasant, and odor free? Is the center compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act? Is the furniture sturdy and comfortable? Is there a quiet place within the program area? Did you see cheerful faces on staff members and participants? Do they have volunteers who help? Are participants involved in planning activities or making suggestions? What kind of security features are in place? What were participants doing during your visit? Did they appear happy and engaged?

Step 4: Check References

Talk to two or three people who have used the centers you are considering. Ask for their opinion. Check online reviews.

Step 5: What to Expect

It’s important to remember that a change in routine can be challenging for you and your loved one. It may take several days or longer to adjust to a new routine and setting. Knowing what to expect is important for both of you. If you run into any difficulty or have concerns during this transition, ask staff for their suggestions and support. Keep in mind that this transition period is temporary; your loved one should soon enjoy and look forward to their days at the center.