Senior Day Care



Posted: Tuesday, June 02, 2009

by
EldercareABC, Inc.

Our parents took care of us and saw us through each stage of our lives. Now it is our turn. The only problem is that when we were growing up most fathers worked outside the home and the majority of mothers stayed home and took care of the house and the children. That is not usually the case these days. Due to the poor economy and rising costs, many families are forced to provide their households with a dual income just to make ends meet. So what do we do with our beloved parents who now rely on us as they age? Staying home to care for them is near impossible, but you want them to have the very best care when you are unable to be there for them.

Just as parents these days must rely on day care for their children we are fortunate enough to have this type of service for our elderly parents as well. Seniors can now be left at a senior day care facility while we are away at work all day. We can be sure that our aging family members are given adequate supervision, nutritious meals, fellowship, a safe, healthy environment and mental stimulation.

Our elderly loved ones are probably capable of staying at home alone all day while you are away at work depending on their health condition. However, this is very lonely for them. Being alone day after day can lead to depression. If they do happen to fall, are they going to be able to seek out help? Safety then becomes an issue. Cooking meals can also become a problem. Even though you wouldn't want them to use the stove because of their forgetfulness, they might not agree. This is another safety issue. Are you sure they will prepare food and eat properly? Many elderly tire easily and getting themselves a meal is just another chore that they would just rather do without.

With senior day care, all of these worries are quickly quelled as they are taken care of in all of these areas. This will also offer priceless, peace of mind.

Here are some of the things that you should look for when choosing a senior day care facility for your loved one:

Is the facility bright and cheerful? Is it clean? Of course, for obvious reasons you want your loved one to stay in a nicely maintained and clean facility. When visiting the site, be sure to pay close attention to every detail.

How many staff members per each person are there? Is this adequate? Being only human, we can only oversee so many others at once. An overloaded staff member can overlook someone if they are forced to supervise too many people at one time.

Find out the cost and days and hours that they are open.

Is the food served nutritious? Ask to see the menu for the day when you are touring the building.

What type of activities are available in the center? Are people just sitting around waiting for something to do? You will want to make sure that your loved will have plenty of socialization and mental stimulation.

Using a senior day care for your elderly loved one will not only provide you with peace of mind, but gives your loved one the chance to get a little more out of life by making new friendships and enjoying the company of others that are their age.

When you cannot stay home with your older family members, it is comforting to know you can provide excellent care at a site that is set up for them.

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Stephen and Sandra Joyce moved back home to Ireland in the 90's and began a 10 year caregiving experience to help care for his parents. This inspired them to found EldercareABC.com. The site includes a team of specialists to serve those caring for an aging family member and offers a place where caregivers can be heard and contribute to their community. Stephen Joyce EldercareABC Blog EldercareABC, Inc.
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