By Jennie Pettett, MA, Community Outreach Director, Country Comfort Retirement Homes
The thought of having to explain to dad that we were moving him into my house keeps me up at night. This is a thought that many have when the times comes when a loved one needs extra care. Often, a loved one is kept home with a family member or friend; however, these caregivers are usually not trained to handle senior needs, nor do they always have the time. Keeping a family member home that needs extra care can potentially be unsafe, both mentally and physically. To assist in this time of change, some communities offer senior day care programs.
Senior day care programs are designed to provide care and companionship older adults may need. The program offers all the services one would receive in a senior living home, such as social activities, meals, recreation, a schedule, and health-related services. Programs offer relief to family members and caregivers, allowing them to go to work, handle personal business, or just relax while knowing their relative is well-cared-for and safe.
The benefits of a senior day care program ultimately provide a break for a caregiver but also provide the care a senior needs. Socialization is important in all stages of life but even more so in our later years. Senior day care is a great way to provide that for a loved one. It can also be a way to transition them to a senior living home. Becoming familiar with staff, the home, and a routine makes a big change like moving somewhere new much smoother as they are already a part of the family at the home.
It is always encouraged to be planning ahead, so keep senior day care in mind as an option for your loved one. The goal of senior day care is not to delay or prevent moving on to senior living but to simply provide care, encourage socialization, ensure your loved one is safe, and provide a relief for a caregiver.
For over 20 years, Country Comfort Retirement Homes has provided a senior day care program. For more information about the senior day care program, assisted living, and Alzheimer’s care, reach out to 309-364-3607. Visit online at www.countrycomfortretirement.com. Located in Elmwood, Henry, and Princeton, IL.