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It is critically important that you, the caregiver, get some respite from time to time--that is, temporary relief from your sometimes overwhelming duties of caring for a loved one. One of the most congenial ways of doing this is through the use of adult day health care.
Adult day health centers offer medical care and therapeutic services to your loved one, as well as social activities and noon meals. They may also offer transportation, nursing care, counseling, and personal care.
By using such centers, you will have more personal time and hopefully be able to keep working while your loved one remains active and involved in the community. You'll end up with an improved quality of life and peace of mind for your entire family.
Many centers specialize in services for people with specific diseases, such as Alzheimer's. While there is limited public funding in some communities, most services are not covered by Medicare, employee benefits, or traditional medical insurance policies, though sometimes services are covered by Medicaid or long-term care insurance. The average daily cost is $50 or less, but most centers charge fees based on a sliding scale matched to the participant's income.
To locate an adult day center in your community, you can contact your local Alzheimer's Association or Office on Aging. Also, check with local community, religious, and civic organizations; state departments of health; visiting nurse organizations; care managers; family physicians; social service counselors; and hospital discharge planners.
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