Finding a solution as the right type of care for a loved one is challenging for many families. Among two of the most popular options today include adult day centers or in-home senior care.

Adult Day Center

Adult day centers (ADC) have become increasingly popular over the years. These centers are designed for aging individuals to attend while a loved one has various items on the agenda. Many ADCs will offer two options when it comes to care, half day (four hours) or full day (eight hours). The center will provide all the necessary care, meals, and socially engaging events throughout the day.

In-Home Senior Care

Home care has been a staple service for those who wish to age in place. According to AARP, 3 in 4 adults hope to age in place. Home care is an option for a companion or a caregiver to provide necessary care from the comfort of one’s own home. Many home care agencies will require weekly minimums, therefore many home care shifts must be in eight or twelve hour increments.

Varied Services

Although adult day centers and in-home senior care provide the same type of service, there remains a great deal of variability between the two.

Cost

Adult day centers will be far more cost efficient. The national average for a full day at an ADC is about $61. Whereas, the same amount of care provided in home may range from $126 to 210.

Ease

Families utilize in-home senior care for the ease of use. Great peace of mind is found knowing care will be provided from the comfort of home, opposed to drop off and pick up each day at an ADC.

Social Engagement

Unfortunately it is a challenge to find in-home caregivers or companions that will engage with the care recipient. However, there are agencies with Enrichment Coordinators, that provide this engagement from the home at an added cost. Adult day centers provide activities throughout the day while care recipients are surrounded by peers.

Which is Best?

Ultimately, the decision is going to be based on personal preference. There are a number of home care agencies and adult day centers. One option is going to be more beneficial to one family and a different one will be better for another. At the end of the day, the decision is based on what is best for the care recipient and the surrounding family.