Setting Mom or Dad up with adult day care can be an enjoyable process as you learn more about the opportunities for their comfort and well-being. Asking the right questions initially helps narrow the field, so when it's time to make a decision, you can have a back-up plan as well. While an initial conversation with the day care facility may be held over the phone, make a point to visit the facility in person to clarify all the answers. Take notes, look carefully at the condition of the physical property and get to know the personality of the folks who could potentially be in charge of you parents' care during the day.
Finances
Verify exactly what the pricing is, any additional expenses that may be charged, such as late pick-up fees, and the terms of payment. Is a full month's worth of day care due in advance and is there a grace period? A list of charges and terms should be available in writing for you to take with you.
Schedules
Establish that the day care operation can accommodate your parent during the hours you require. If you work early some days, late others, or if you simply wish to use their services for short periods, look for adult day care with flexible scheduling. If your parent needs the services of a visiting physical therapist or other medical attention during the day, discuss the facility's policy for therapeutic professionals.
Security
Determine the level of security at the day care center's property. Fences, gates and alarms may be necessary at day care if your parent has dementia or wanders. Casually check the tag on a fire extinguisher as you tour the building to see when the equipment was last inspected and if the tag shows a pattern of consistent inspections.
Certification
Know the certification laws for your state and county. If day care facility certification is required where you live, ask the adult day care provider for the certification number and effective dates. Let the person you are interviewing know you will be checking with the appropriate government department to verify the information and ask if there are any inspection details or reports they would like to tell you about in advance.
Nutrition
Request a copy of a week's menu for the meals your parent will eat at the facility. Inform the provider of any dietary needs, especially if your parent is diabetic, vegetarian or has sodium restrictions. Review the operation's policy on substitutions and whether it is ever appropriate for you to provide snacks or supplemental food.
Staff Ratio
Ask for the ratio of staff to day care recipients. According to the National Adult Day Services Association, the average ratio is six recipients for each staff member on duty. Depending on the level of care your parent requires, you may wish to seek a higher ratio or accept lower.
Activities
On the tour of the day care facility, look for ongoing activities and question the provider about the activities schedule. Is there ample space and time for socialization with fellow day care participants? Is there a balance between organized activities and individual pursuits? Get a sense for the amount of time available for rest and relaxation as well.
References
Inquire about references from other families of day care recipients, which may be available if the families have given permission for the facility to share their private contact information. Ask for professional references from medical care practitioners wherever possible.
