by Lynn Ivey, founder and CEO of The Ivey, Charlotte’s only Memory Wellness Day Center.
Generally operating on weekdays during normal business hours (with some open on evenings and weekends), adult day care programs present a unique “best of both worlds” care solution for many of our frail, impaired, elderly, or disabled loved ones. On one hand, they provide the adult needing care with vital social interaction, professional supervision for health and safety, and nutritious meals. On the other hand, because they go back to their families at night, the loved one also retains treasured independence, valuable time with family, and the distinct comfort of their most familiar environment: home.
You should expect an individualized care plan to be developed for social engagement, medication administration, health-related services and monitoring, and assistance with activities of daily living such as eating and personal care. Some centers even feature on-site rehabilitative therapies. And the best of the bunch go a step further to truly partner with the family – providing the education, advocacy, support and love they need to remain strong and healthy caregivers. Using an adult day care center can help you to maintain a job, tend to your own family, and take care of yourself amidst the demands of being a family caregiver.
If your loved one is living with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of memory loss, consider a center that specializes in dementia care. Some centers tout other specializations, such as serving those with developmental disabilities.
If you’re considering adult day care for your loved one, take time to get to know the staff when you visit. Choose wisely and you’ll find the center will be a highly valuable partner for you and your loved one – yielding greater independence for you both.
