Suppose you have an adult relative who needs someone there to keep an eye on him or her. This person might have early Alzheimer's disease or a stroke. Maybe she or he just has trouble walking, or getting up and down, or going to the bathroom. A few years ago, your only choices were for a family member to stay home or for your relative to go to a nursing home. Now you and your relative may have more choices.

One option is an adult day care center. These may also be referred to as day treatment programs for the elderly. Most of these programs are open during daytime hours. Some may have arrangements for overnight visits. Some may provide transportation to and from the center. Others may require a family member to drop a relative off at the center.

These centers offer a safe, structured environment for the older adult. They generally provide lunch and often snacks. Older adults have a chance to visit with each other and with staff members. Recreational activities are available and are usually geared to a person's mental and physical abilities. In many ways this can be a much healthier alternative.

Fees and expenses for adult day care vary depending on your city and state. Many times the fees may not be covered by insurance or Medicare. However, if a physician states that otherwise a patient may go to a nursing home full time, insurance may choose to pay for adult day care instead. Some facilities may also get funding from other sources and may keep costs lower. Some centers may specialize in dealing with special populations, such as people with Alzheimer's.

Be as careful in choosing an adult care center as you would in choosing a day care center for a child. Visit the center and speak with the older adults and the staff. Ask about staff credentials and any certifications the center has. Ask about possible situations, such as what the plan is if your relative is ill and the center can't reach you.

Many people are concerned in the beginning about putting a child in day care, only to find that their child has a wonderful time. In the same way, adult day care centers can provide an opportunity for older adults and for their caretakers.

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