Stigmas and Myths of Adult Day Cares
Dispelling the Stigmas and Myths of Adult Day Cares
Most people have some idea of what adult day care centers do and what services they provide. Unfortunately, this idea might not always be accurate. There are still so many myths and stigmas surrounding the adult day care field.
These misconceptions haven’t come out of nowhere – well-publicized stories of neglect and malpractice may be the minority, but they certainly grab the headlines and are genuinely shocking. At Town Square at the Jersey Shore, we set out to do something different. We created an adult day care center that our members and their caregivers can rely upon – a center that provides stimulating activities with a focus on engagement, respect, dignity, and enjoyment, as well as professional care from a highly trained leadership team with extensive experience in senior care.
So, let’s dispel some of the stigmas and myths that may be holding people back. Let’s get to the truth of the matter of what adult day care really means at Town Square at the Jersey Shore.
Myths
Adult Day Care Is Nothing More than Glorified Babysitting
It’s a common misconception that adult day care is nothing more than babysitting – that centers are simply spaces where sitters watch over seniors. In fact, adult day care centers like Town Square at the Jersey Shore do far more than this.
Adult Day Care Ignores Socialization in Favor of Activities
Are adult day care centers too focused on a rigid program of activities? Do they ignore opportunities for socialization and making friends in favor of following the center’s set schedule? Certainly not at Town Square at the Jersey Shore.
Caregivers Are Excluded from Adult Day Care Sessions
Many people think that caregivers are not allowed to participate in adult day care – that day care centers somehow exist outside of the regular care environment. This misconception prevents some people from learning more about what an adult day care center can provide.
The Truth
Adult Day Care Provides Much More than Sitting Services for Seniors
The Town Square at the Jersey Shore team is highly trained and highly skilled, providing a range of activities that engage and stimulate people in our care. We go far beyond a mere sitting service for elderly individuals.
Social Interaction and Community Are the Heart of Senior Day Care
Here at Town Square at the Jersey Shore, we recognize the importance of community and social interaction. We foster a warm and sociable environment where seniors can chat, converse, and make new friends. This is so important to the quality of life for our seniors, and is a big part of the experience, atmosphere, care, and well-being we provide.
Caregivers Are Very Welcome Here at Town Square Jersey Shore
The team at Town Square at the Jersey Shore recognizes the vital work that caregivers do for seniors on a regular basis. We also understand how important it is for caregivers to get involved, which is why we welcome you to join us at our center. Simply reach out to our team and let us know how you’d like to participate, and we’ll be happy to accommodate you.
The Stigmas
Stigma #1: Adult Day Care Members Are All Sick and Feeble, and This Makes Day Care Unsuitable for Those with Higher Levels of Ability and Mobility
There is a common, and false, stigma around adult day care – the stigma that all participants have low levels of cognition or mobility . Some potential members may worry that this will drag them down or make activities unsuitable for their needs.
The Truth: We Cater to Members of All Ability Levels
Town Square at the Jersey Shore provides programs of activities for seniors at all stages of cognitive ability, ensuring that all participants will find engagement and enjoyment. We recommend that our members have enough mobility to move around the center and participate in activities that involve some motion, but we tailor our programs to suit different individuals and their needs. So we do have members who ambulate independently and some who use assistive devices.
Stigma #2: The Daycare Schedule Is Too Rigid, and Members Are Treated Like Children
We often hear that people are put off by the rigid schedule and inflexible atmosphere of a day care center. This is a damaging stigma, and it represents a major misconception about what adult day care really means.
The Truth: All of Our Members Have the Right to Choose What They Participate In, and All Voices Are Heard
No one wants to feel like they are being patronized, infantilized, or treated like a kid at school. No one wants to feel dictated to – as if there is a set schedule that no one is allowed to deviate from. Here at Town Square at the Jersey Shore, we recognize this, so we treat seniors with respect and dignity while giving them the options and freedom they need to choose their own path. We support our seniors’ right to choose which activities they want to participate in and which ones they aren’t interested in – and we’re always open to suggestions from our members!
Stigma #2: The Daycare Schedule Is Too Rigid, and Members Are Treated Like Children
We often hear that people are put off by the rigid schedule and inflexible atmosphere of a day care center. This is a damaging stigma, and it represents a major misconception about what adult day care really means.
The Truth: All of Our Members Have the Right to Choose What They Participate In, and All Voices Are Heard
No one wants to feel like they are being patronized, infantilized, or treated like a kid at school. No one wants to feel dictated to – as if there is a set schedule that no one is allowed to deviate from. Here at Town Square at the Jersey Shore, we recognize this, so we treat seniors with respect and dignity while giving them the options and freedom they need to choose their own path. We support our seniors’ right to choose which activities they want to participate in and which ones they aren’t interested in – and we’re always open to suggestions from our members!
Members Enjoy a Positive, Enlivening Experience at Town Square Jersey Shore
Many common perceptions about adult day care centers have no basis in reality. At Town Square at the Jersey Shore, our proven programming allows us to provide a fulfilling day full of social connections, learning, remembrance, and fun. If you’d like to learn more, reach out to our team today or schedule a tour.
