Adult Day Centers

Adult Day Centers are effective resources that can help you care for your loved one at home and still make certain there is time for you to focus your time and attention on activities besides caregiving. Many caregivers resist using this resource. There are many reasons: your loved one is not interested; there is a cost involved; it is too hard to get him/her there; (s)he might need me, and I will not be available. All true, but all can be addressed. 

• Very few people aspire to attend an adult day center (ADC), however, once given the opportunity to participate, almost all like it.
• There is a cost, but there is a cost for pretty much everything in life. Some things are worth the cost. Also, many of the ADCs have scholarships for part of the costs if there is a genuine need. Your relative doesn’t have to attend every day to get a benefit from participation. Some people only attend once per week. Depending on the model center you select, they may be able to provide shower and shampoo service. For many caregivers, the bath is one of the most difficult challenges. The ADC can provide that with trained staff, in fully accessible bath facilities. That alone is worth the price of participation.
• Most of the ADCs provide transportation that can accommodate people with mobility problems.
• Indeed, you will not be there if (s)he needs you, but at some point, in the caregiver journey, it’s important to discover that you can’t be all things. Caregivers who survive their caregiving journey realize we all need help to be successful caregivers.
• The time apart from your loved one can provide a boost to your relationship.
• Your relative has something to talk about when (s)he returns home.

We are truly fortunate to have some excellent day centers in our area. To get information about ADCs in our region, contact the Agency on Aging of South Central CT  203.785.8533, and ask to speak with an information counselor.