CHECKLIST FOR CHOOSING AN ADULT DAY CARE FACILITY:

• Location of facility
  • Is the facility accessible?
  • Can individual get to facility?
  • Is transportation to the facility available?
  • Is there an extra charge for transportation?
• How long has the day care facility been in business?
• What days and hours is the facility open?
• Is the day care licensed by the state health department or department of social services?
• Has the state health department received any substantiated complaints about the care provided in the facility?
• What is the cost of care? Hourly, daily, or weekly? Must you commit to a minimum amount of service, i.e., at least 2 days/week? Are all activities included in the cost?
• Does the facility accept individuals who:
  • Are incontinent?
  • Are in wheelchairs?
  • Have memory loss?
  • Have difficulties in speaking?
  • Wander?
  • Have special dietary requirements?
  • Have behavioral problems?
• What is the participant to staff ratio? Does this ratio meet state standards? What professional staff is available to help with care planning and concerns?
• What activities are provided?
  • Are there individual and group activities?
  • Are the activities stimulating? Exercise, music, crafts, memory sharing, etc.
  • Are individuals with dementia separated from other participants or included in activities?
• Does the facility provide other conveniences/benefits such as blood pressure checks, annual immunizations, hair styling services, bathing, dental check-ups, etc.?
• What is the policy concerning late arrival or late pick-up?
• Are the meals well-balanced and enjoyed by participants? Are meals included in the cost?
• Is staff willing to spend time finding out what you want and need? Were the programs and activities explained?
• Is the day care facility clean, odorless, and pleasant to visit? Does the facility have comfortable furniture for activities and for relaxation?
• Do participants interact with each other? Do they seem to enjoy their time at the facility?
• Is the staff pleasant to the participants?
• Can the facility accommodate the following special physical or medical requirements:
  • Dispense medicine?
  • Give reminders about taking pills?
  • Assist with toileting or handle incontinence?
  • Provide total access and participation to wheelchair-restricted clients?
  • Effectively communicate with hearing impaired participants?
• Is financial assistance available? Is there a sliding scale, Medicare, Medicaid, or other funding available to help you pay the cost?
• How do they insure safety? How are behavior problems handled? Are there specific behaviors or care needs which would require your loved one’s withdrawal from the program?