John started taking his wife, Jane, who is living with dementia, to a day service program once a week – just as a “try it and see” venture, not knowing how Jane would react. Their experience was positive and now Jane attends twice a week.

Comprehensive adult day services provide a safe, protective setting in which participants receive health monitoring by medically trained staff, consulting and other supportive services.

All this while enjoying social activities, nutritious meals and snacks designed to meet specific dietary needs, and personal care assistance. Most adult day centers are designed for older adults living with memory loss or mild-to-moderate Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. Some participants may have physical considerations as well.

Adult day centers generally operate two to five days a week, four to eight hours a day. Fees vary depending on the program and services provided by the center staff and volunteers.

“Many people are unaware of the high level of sophistication of the service and care provided by adult day centers,” said Deb Chapman, director of community services at Eastern Agency on Aging.

“These invaluable community-based programs help individuals live at home, in their community, with family and friends for as long as possible,” said Michaela McCarthy, coordinator for Partners in Caring, an EAA program. “Some clients have shown mild improvement in their conditions due to the social stimulation and change of scene.”

So, how do you find an adult day center that suits the needs and interests of your loved one as well as your own?

For overall quality, look for a caring and concerned staff; happy, active participants; and a welcoming feeling for the family caregivers.

“We encourage families to visit the center, when possible, observe interactions, join in the activities, talk with participants and ask questions,” said Chapman. “That’s the best way for everyone – loved one and caregiver alike – to get a feel for the place and the people.”

Chapman offers a few questions you might ask when inquiring about a facility:

. Is the center licensed as a socially oriented or medically oriented program – or both?

. What training has the staff received to best interact with persons with dementia?

. Does a staff team prepare a complete assessment of each new participant?

. Is a participant-specific plan created depending on the needs of the individual?

. Are medications administered, or are reminders for taking them given?

. Does the center provide a variety of interesting social activities?

. Are staff members trained in emergency procedures?

. Is transportation provided to and from the center?

. Is the center clean and well maintained?

This is just a sampling of questions you could ask when considering an adult day service. For a complete list, call Eastern Agency.

While adult day programs focus primarily on the older adult, they also help family caregivers in a variety of ways. Most important is respite.

“Families can take comfort in the knowledge that their loved one is being well-cared for and enjoying themselves,” said McCarthy. There are stress-relieving properties, she added, because caregivers can tend to some of their own personal business without worry, or just spend a little time doting on themselves for a change.

“Respite care can prevent caregivers from burning out,” McCarthy said. “Care giving can be overwhelming because usually the caregivers focus their whole lives on their loved ones. Taking time for themselves is important for renewal of energy and spirit.”

Remember, caring for yourself can be one of the greatest gifts you can give your loved one. Being at your best ensures them your best care.

For more information about respite services, or a list of the adult days centers in your area, call Eastern Agency on Aging.

Carol Higgins is director of communications at Eastern Agency on Aging. For information on EAA, call 941-2865 or log on www.eaaa.org.