Adult Day Programs

A great advance in community-based services for seniors with chronic health problems or memory loss has been the development of day programs for adults. These are group settings offering a fun and safe environment, offering a social outlet as well as easy access to supportive services. Day programs typically provide transportation, meals, exercise, planned activities, specialized support staff, education, and resources. Health care, personal care, and specialized activities for people with memory loss may also be provided, depending on the scope of the program.

Day Program Models

Social Day Programs
Social day programs are group settings offering a social environment, meals, exercise, planned activities, support staff, and resources. A social program does not provide personal care or health care, and is designed for older adults or adults with disabilities who enjoy interactive activities and do not require much assistance. Transportation and meal options in social day programs vary by program, and may involve an additional fee. Senior Centers are a common example of this type of program.

Adult Day Health Care (ADHC)
Adult day health care centers offer a fun, engaging, social atmosphere, together with on-site daily health care, including nursing; podiatry; nutritional counseling; physical, occupational, and speech therapies; and social work services. Participants continue to see their own doctors or dentists outside of the program. This service is ideal for frail clients with chronic illness or disabilities. Medications can be administered, and chronic medical conditions can be monitored. Transportation to and from the center, snacks, and lunch are provided.

PACE: Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly
The Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) is a national program that provides health care and in-home services for frail older adults, helping participants to remain as independent as possible and avoid placement in a skilled nursing facility. PACE is a complete health plan, providing a full range of services including primary, specialty and emergency medical care; adult day care; transportation; prescription drugs; physical and occupational therapies; in-home care; and personal care; support groups, and education for family caregivers. All doctors, nurses, and health professionals are provided through the plan, and services are integrated and conveniently delivered on-site through the day program.