Once you come to the decision that adult daycare is the best decision for your loved one, you may be wondering what the next step is. We’ve broken the steps down and compiled them into an adult daycare checklist. By following a checklist, you can ensure that you are getting the most information and feel at ease that you made the best decision.
Adult Daycare Checklist
1. Determine needs
Make a list of things that you’d need from the facility, along with preferences. Be sure to include your loved one in this process, as he/she will actually be the one spending time there.
Consider the following needs for your loved one:
- Therapies
- Monitoring for health conditions
- Nutritious meals or particular diet
- Specialized care (dementia, TBI, etc.)
- Assistance with daily living skills
- Social activities
- A safe environment
Consider the following needs for you, the caregiver:
- Occasional free time
- Coverage while working
- Transportation for your loved one
- Cost (if you are paying)
Once you know what you are looking for in a center, you can move on to the next step in the adult daycare checklist: finding a center.
2. Locate an adult daycare facility
You can do this simply by searching Google, or by using other resources such as a local senior center. Search engines allow you to both locate and read reviews of different centers so you have a broad idea of what to expect. Consider how far the center is from both yours and your loved one’s home. If possible, getting references from a few people who have used the center could be helpful. Before you move onto the next adult daycare checklist step, also be sure that the hours of the center will fit your needs.
3. Schedule a visit
You can read all of the reviews online, but you won’t truly know what the facility is like until you make a visit. If your loved one is able, have them accompany you. While you’re there, ask any questions you may have and also don’t be afraid to request a brochure, calendar, and menu. Take in the atmosphere and observe the staff and other seniors to get a feel for the interaction types. Be sure to listen to your loved one’s opinions and not just your own.
4. Test it out
Once you find a daycare or a couple that might be a good fit, try it out for a few days. Have your senior attend the adult daycare for a couple days in a week and see how they respond. When doing this, remember that it can take multiple visits for your loved one to feel comfortable in this new environment and routine. If you or your senior is having trouble, the staff might have suggestions to ease the transition. They’ve likely experienced several transition periods for seniors and caregivers and can usually offer some good advice.
5. Relax, and check in
Once you know that your loved one is being properly cared for, you can sit back and enjoy some free time. Check in with your senior periodically to make sure they are doing okay with the transition and offerings at the center, and still try to spend some time with them. Also, feel free to call the center and ask any questions you may think of.
