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For many caregivers, there is no time off from the responsibilities of caring for a loved one. But what is a caregiver to do when it’s necessary to leave their loved one and go to work outside of the home, or tend to other responsibilities? Adult day care centers are one option families can turn to when they need a break or time off to manage other responsibilities.

“Caregivers often put aside their own needs to meet the needs of their loved ones,” said Anna Goubeaux, Council on Aging’s (COA) caregiver support nurse. “While this is very admirable, everything simply cannot be done by a single person. Caregivers must have time to care for their own needs, work or simply recharge their own batteries.”

Goubeaux – and other case managers at Council on Aging – often refer caregivers to adult day care centers. These centers provide care and companionship for older adults who need assistance or supervision during the day. Many also offer more intensive health and therapeutic services for individuals with dementia or other serious medical conditions.

“Adult day services are very important for the caregiver and the family of the older adult,” said COA Business Relations Partner Jennifer Heck, who works with area centers that have contracts to serve COA clients. “By having a place to bring older adults where they have everything they need, it gives a sense of relief to a caregiver, knowing their loved one is safe and being cared for by professionals.”

COA contracts with 11 adult day care programs within its five-county service area – including seven that serve Warren County – to offer services to individuals enrolled in its programs. In 2025, 356 clients participated in adult day services, receiving more than 42,000 days of care. A client’s assigned care manager determines if they are eligible – and would benefit from –the service. Transportation can also be provided. For individuals who are not enrolled in COA’s programs, most centers offer a private pay option.

Statewide, Adult Day Ohio says adult day services help older adults remain in their homes and communities longer by providing socialization, support and care tailored to daily needs, while also giving caregivers respite and peace of mind.

“Adult day is a safe, engaging daytime program for older adults who need support, supervision or meaningful social connection while continuing to live at home,” said Melissa Rodzinak, director of adult day services at Otterbein Lebanon Adult Day Service in Warren County. “It helps families bridge the gap between independence and full-time care.”

The centers in COA’s service area are well-equipped to manage clients with dementia, as well as other medical needs. Each center has a licensed nurse on site and plenty of activities for participants to engage in. The centers provide daily meals, assist with medications that are needed during attendance, complete personal care if needed, and provide socialization opportunities.

At Otterbein, a typical day begins with breakfast or refreshments and time for social connection. Throughout the day, participants may enjoy exercise, music, games, discussion groups, crafts, spiritual opportunities, cognitive activities and lunch with friends. Rest breaks are available, along with personal care assistance as needed. “Our goal for participants is that they leave each day feeling valued, engaged, safe and connected,” Rodzinak said.

Safety is also a priority at adult day centers. Rodzinak said quality adult day programs include trained caregivers, activity professionals and nursing support. Staff assist with medications, monitor for changes in condition, support mobility and fall prevention, and communicate concerns promptly with families. “The goal is to create a safe environment while preserving dignity and independence,” she said.

According to COA’s Goubeaux, family caregivers may be reluctant to try an adult day center. They may say, “No, I don’t think she would like that,” or “I just don’t think he would agree to go.” But she encourages caregivers to visit a center and talk to the staff instead of saying “no” right away.

Rodzinak said those reactions are common. She encourages families to frame adult day services positively: “Let’s go try a place with good people and activities.” Often after a few visits, she said, reluctance turns into routine and enjoyment.

Adult day services can be especially helpful for caregivers who are still working or balancing other family responsibilities. “For working caregivers, adult day services can be the difference between constant worry and peace of mind,” Rodzinak said. “Families know their loved one is in a secure setting with supervision, meals, activities, medication support and caring staff — allowing them to focus on work, parenting or other responsibilities while staying employed.”

Anita, a nurse and caregiver whose father used adult day services through Council on Aging’s ESP program, agreed. “It has been a tremendous help to my husband and I,” she said. “[Dad] is able to go to the adult day center five days a week while we’re at work. I would have had to quit my job, and I can’t quit my job – I have two kids in college.”

Rodzinak said one common misconception is that adult day care is simply “babysitting” or a place to pass the time. In reality, she said, it is structured, purposeful care that includes activities, wellness monitoring, meals, socialization and support tailored to each person’s needs. She added that seeking support early often creates better outcomes than waiting for a crisis.

What are some signs it might be time to consider adult day services? Rodzinak’s list includes: when caregiving responsibilities become overwhelming, safety concerns begin to grow, medications are missed or an older adult is experiencing loneliness. Once someone starts attending regularly, she said, families often see participants become more alert, social, active and confident, while caregivers report less stress, improved sleep and more meaningful time together at home.

For many caregivers, there is no time off from the responsibilities of caring for a loved one. But what is a caregiver to do when it’s necessary to leave their loved one and go to work outside of the home, or tend to other responsibilities? Adult day care centers are one option families can turn to when they need a break or time off to manage other responsibilities.

“Caregivers often put aside their own needs to meet the needs of their loved ones,” said Anna Goubeaux, Council on Aging’s (COA) caregiver support nurse. “While this is very admirable, everything simply cannot be done by a single person. Caregivers must have time to care for their own needs, work or simply recharge their own batteries.”

Goubeaux – and other case managers at Council on Aging – often refer caregivers to adult day care centers. These centers provide care and companionship for older adults who need assistance or supervision during the day. Many also offer more intensive health and therapeutic services for individuals with dementia or other serious medical conditions.

“Adult day services are very important for the caregiver and the family of the older adult,” said COA Business Relations Partner Jennifer Heck, who works with area centers that have contracts to serve COA clients. “By having a place to bring older adults where they have everything they need, it gives a sense of relief to a caregiver, knowing their loved one is safe and being cared for by professionals.”

COA contracts with 12 adult day care programs within its five-county service area – including seven that serve Butler County – to offer services to individuals enrolled in its programs. In 2025, 356 clients participated in adult day services, receiving more than 42,000 days of care. A client’s assigned care manager determines if they are eligible – and would benefit from –the service. Transportation can also be provided. For individuals who are not enrolled in COA’s programs, most centers offer a private pay option.

Statewide, Adult Day Ohio says adult day services help older adults remain in their homes and communities longer by providing socialization, support and care tailored to daily needs, while also giving caregivers respite and peace of mind.

“Adult day services help bridge the gap for someone who is still living at home but needs more structure, supervision, socialization or caregiver support during the day,” said Stacy Frazho, director of adult day services at Oxford Seniors.

The centers in COA’s service area are well-equipped to manage clients with dementia, as well as other medical needs. Each center has a licensed nurse on site and plenty of activities for participants to engage in. The centers provide daily meals, assist with medications that are needed during attendance, complete personal care if needed, and provide socialization opportunities.

At Vebcom Community Hub Adult Day Care in Fairfield, a typical day includes morning exercise, bingo, card games, puzzles and occasional field trips. Nutritionally appropriate meals are also provided. Vida Boafo, director of the Vebcom adult day care, said adult day services are not one-size-fits-all. “Each individual is different, so we try to assess and understand each individual and tailor their care plan to their unique needs,” she said.

Safety is also a priority at adult day centers. “Our staff are trained to provide supervision, personal support, mobility assistance and dementia-informed care,” said Oxford Seniors’ Frazho. Staff pay close attention to fall risks, changes in mood, appetite, mobility, confusion and overall health. “We coordinate with nursing support as needed, especially for assessments, care planning, medication needs and health changes. If we notice a change, we communicate with the caregiver and document concerns,” Frazho added.

According to Goubeaux, family caregivers may be reluctant to try an adult day center. They may say, “No, I don’t think she would like that,” or “I just don’t think he would agree to go.” But she encourages caregivers to visit a center and talk to the staff instead of saying “no” right away.

Frazho agreed that caregiver hesitation is common, especially when families worry a loved one will refuse to go. “Getting help is not giving up,” she said. “It is one of the ways they are continuing to care.” She added that many participants begin to look forward to attending once the routine becomes familiar, and Goubeaux said many caregivers later tell her it was one of the best decisions they made for themselves and their loved ones.

Adult day services can be especially helpful for caregivers who are still working or balancing other family responsibilities. Boafo said the service gives caregivers “the chance to attend to their own needs without feeling any guilt of neglecting them.”

“Adult day care has been a tremendous help to my husband and I,” said Anita, a nurse and caregiver for her parents. “We called [COA] and through the help of ESP, he [Dad] is able to go to the adult day center five days a week while we’re at work. I would have had to quit my job and I can’t quit my job – I have two kids in college.”

Boafo said one common misconception is that adult day services are only for people with dementia. In reality, she said, adult day can also benefit older adults who have little social engagement in their daily routines by providing group connection and activity while allowing them to remain at home. As participants begin looking forward to seeing new friends and getting out of the house, Boafo said, she often sees an improvement in their overall outlook on life.

For many caregivers, there is no time off from the responsibilities of caring for a loved one. But what is a caregiver to do when it’s necessary to leave their loved one and go to work outside of the home, or tend to other responsibilities? Adult day care centers are one option families can turn to when they need a break or time off to manage other responsibilities.

“Caregivers often put aside their own needs to meet the needs of their loved ones,” said Anna Goubeaux, Council on Aging’s (COA) caregiver support nurse. “While this is very admirable, everything simply cannot be done by a single person. Caregivers must have time to care for their own needs, work or simply recharge their own batteries.”

Goubeaux – and other case managers at Council on Aging – often refer caregivers to adult day care centers. These centers provide care and companionship for older adults who need assistance or supervision during the day. Many also offer more intensive health and therapeutic services for individuals with dementia or other serious medical conditions.

“Adult day services are very important for the caregiver and the family of the older adult,” said COA Business Relations Partner Jennifer Heck, who works with area centers that have contracts to serve COA clients. “By having a place to bring older adults where they have everything they need, it gives a sense of relief to a caregiver, knowing their loved one is safe and being cared for by professionals.”

COA contracts with 11 adult day care programs within its five-county service area – including four that serve Clermont County – to offer services to individuals enrolled in its programs. In 2025, 356 clients participated in adult day services, receiving more than 42,000 days of care. A client’s assigned care manager determines if they are eligible – and would benefit from – the service. Transportation can also be provided. For individuals who are not enrolled in COA’s programs, most centers offer a private pay option.

Statewide, Adult Day Ohio says adult day services help older adults remain in their homes and communities longer by providing socialization, support and care tailored to daily needs, while also giving caregivers respite and peace of mind.

“These services provide support to older adults, allowing them to remain in their communities for as long as possible,” said Kristin Gaffney, owner and executive director of Margaret’s Heart Senior Day Center in Clermont County. “They offer caregivers much-needed respite from their demanding roles, allowing them to focus on their own needs, nurture relationships with friends, and prioritize self-care that is essential to their well-being.”

The centers in COA’s service area are well-equipped to manage clients with dementia, as well as other medical needs. Each center has a licensed nurse on site and plenty of activities for participants to engage in. The centers provide daily meals, assist with medications that are needed during attendance, complete personal care if needed, and provide socialization opportunities.

At Margaret’s Heart, participants are greeted at the door, checked in and offered coffee, tea, juice, water and a light breakfast before the day’s activities begin. Gaffney said the center designs its day around “stimulating activities, socialization, safety, fun and laughter.” A typical day may include group discussion, light movement, crafts, games, shared meals and quiet time, with aides available to assist with personal care needs and a registered nurse on site to monitor health, administer medications and follow physician orders.

Safety is also a priority at adult day centers. Gaffney said participants are never left unattended, and staff closely monitor for changes in eating, speech, mobility, behavior or overall health. “With a doctor’s order, our nurse is able to give medications, administer treatments, check blood sugars, monitor blood pressure and help with other medical needs,” she said.

According to Goubeaux, family caregivers may be reluctant to try an adult day center. They may say, “No, I don’t think she would like that,” or “I just don’t think he would agree to go.” But she encourages caregivers to visit a center and talk to the staff instead of saying “no” right away.

Gaffney agreed that caregiver and participant hesitation are common. Her team sometimes eases the transition by inviting new, reluctant participants to “help out” with activities, office work or meal preparation, adding that several participants’ name tags have “volunteer” written on them. She said, “Our goal is for seniors to leave Margaret’s Heart feeling excited to return because they feel seen, heard and cared for during their time with us.”

Adult day services can be especially helpful for caregivers who are still working or balancing other family responsibilities. By enrolling a loved one in adult day services, Gaffney said, caregivers can focus on work and other obligations “knowing that their loved one is in a secure setting filled with companionship and social interaction.”

“Adult day care has been a tremendous help to my husband and I,” said Anita, a nurse and caregiver for her parents. “We called COA and Dad is able to go to the adult day center five days a week while we’re at work. I would have had to quit my job and I can’t quit my job – I have two kids in college.”

Gaffney said one common misconception is that adult day centers are simply a place for older adults to spend the day. In reality, she said, programs are designed around stimulating activities, socialization, safety and fun. She said adult day services can be especially helpful when an older adult is showing signs of sadness, boredom, lack of engagement, poor personal hygiene habits, memory decline or poor sleep — particularly if they have little interaction with others outside their caregiver.

“Going to sleep at the same time each night and avoiding daytime sleep due to boredom are important for overall well-being,” Gaffney said. “Sharing meals with others can also enhance food intake. Connecting with others can provide motivation and give seniors something to look forward to in their daily lives.”o

For many caregivers, there is no time off from the responsibilities of caring for a loved one. But what is a caregiver to do when it’s necessary to leave their loved one and go to work outside of the home, or tend to other responsibilities? Adult day care centers are one option families can turn to when they need a break or time off to manage other responsibilities.

“Caregivers often put aside their own needs to meet the needs of their loved ones,” said Anna Goubeaux, Council on Aging’s (COA) caregiver support nurse. “While this is very admirable, everything simply cannot be done by a single person. Caregivers must have time to care for their own needs, work or simply recharge their own batteries.”

Goubeaux – and other case managers at Council on Aging – often refer caregivers to adult day care centers. These centers provide care and companionship for older adults who need assistance or supervision during the day. Many also offer more intensive health and therapeutic services for individuals with serious medical conditions.

“Adult day services are very important for the caregiver and the family of the older adult,” said COA Business Relations Partner Jennifer Heck, who works with area centers that have contracts to serve COA clients. “By having a place to bring older adults where they have everything they need, it gives a sense of relief to a caregiver, knowing their loved one is safe and being cared for by professionals.”

COA contracts with 11 adult day care programs within its five-county service area – including five that serve Clinton County – to offer services to individuals enrolled in its programs. In 2025, 356 clients participated in adult day services, receiving more than 42,000 days of care. A client’s assigned care manager determines if they are eligible – and would benefit from –the service. Transportation can also be provided. For individuals who are not enrolled in COA’s programs, most centers offer a private pay option.

Statewide, Adult Day Ohio says adult day services help older adults remain in their homes and communities longer by providing socialization, support and care tailored to daily needs, while also giving caregivers respite and peace of mind.

“Adult day is a safe, engaging daytime program for older adults who need support, supervision or meaningful social connection while continuing to live at home,” said Melissa Rodzinak, director of adult day services at Otterbein Adult Day Service, which serves Clinton County. “It helps families bridge the gap between independence and full-time care.”

The centers in COA’s service area are well-equipped to manage clients with dementia, as well as other medical needs. Each center has a licensed nurse on site and plenty of activities for participants to engage in. The centers provide daily meals, assist with medications that are needed during attendance, complete personal care if needed, and provide socialization opportunities.

At Margaret’s Heart Senior Day Center, which also serves Clinton County, participants are greeted at the door, checked in and offered coffee, tea, juice, water and a light breakfast before the day’s activities begin. Owner Kristin Gaffney said the center designs its day around “stimulating activities, socialization, safety, fun and laughter.” A typical day may include group discussion, light movement, crafts, games, shared meals and quiet time, with aides available to assist with personal care needs and a registered nurse on site to monitor health, administer medications and follow physician orders.

Safety is also a priority at adult day centers. Gaffney said participants are never left unattended, and staff closely monitor for changes in eating, speech, mobility, behavior or overall health. “With a doctor’s order, our nurse is able to give medications, administer treatments, check blood sugars, monitor blood pressure and help with other medical needs,” she said.

According to Goubeaux, family caregivers may be reluctant to try an adult day center. They may say, “No, I don’t think she would like that,” or “I just don’t think he would agree to go.” But she encourages caregivers to visit a center and talk to the staff instead of saying “no” right away.

“I’ve have had many caregivers report that it was the best decision they’ve made for themselves and their loved ones,” Goubeaux said.

Rodzinak said those reactions are common. She encourages families to frame adult day services positively: “Let’s go try a place with good people and activities.” Often after a few visits, she said, reluctance turns into routine and enjoyment.

Adult day services can be especially helpful for caregivers who are still working or balancing other family responsibilities. “For working caregivers, adult day services can be the difference between constant worry and peace of mind,” Otterbein’s Rodzinak said. “Families know their loved one is in a secure setting with supervision, meals, activities, medication support and caring staff — allowing them to focus on work, parenting or other responsibilities while staying employed.”

Anita, a nurse and caregiver whose father used adult day services through Council on Aging’s ESP program, agreed. “It has been a tremendous help to my husband and I,” she said. “[Dad] is able to go to the adult day center five days a week while we’re at work. I would have had to quit my job, and I can’t quit my job – I have two kids in college.”

Gaffney said one common misconception is that adult day centers are simply a place for older adults to spend the day. In reality, she said, programs are designed around stimulating activities, socialization, safety and fun. She said adult day services can be especially helpful when an older adult is showing signs of sadness, boredom, lack of engagement, poor personal hygiene habits, memory decline or poor sleep — particularly if they have little interaction with others outside their caregiver.

“Going to sleep at the same time each night and avoiding daytime sleep due to boredom are important for overall well-being,” Gaffney said. “Sharing meals with others can also enhance food intake. Connecting with others can provide motivation and give seniors something to look forward to in their daily lives.”

For many caregivers, there is no time off from the responsibilities of caring for a loved one. But what is a caregiver to do when it’s necessary to leave their loved one and go to work outside of the home, or tend to other responsibilities? Adult day care centers are one option families can turn to when they need a break or time off to manage other responsibilities.

“Caregivers often put aside their own needs to meet the needs of their loved ones,” said Anna Goubeaux, Council on Aging’s (COA) caregiver support nurse. “While this is very admirable, everything simply cannot be done by a single person. Caregivers must have time to care for their own needs, work or simply recharge their own batteries.”

Goubeaux – and other case managers at Council on Aging – often refer caregivers to adult day care centers. These centers provide care and companionship for older adults who need assistance or supervision during the day. Many also offer more intensive health and therapeutic services for individuals with dementia or other serious medical conditions.

“Adult day services are very important for the caregiver and the family of the older adult,” said COA Business Relations Partner Jennifer Heck, who works with area centers that have contracts to serve COA clients. “By having a place to bring older adults where they have everything they need, it gives a sense of relief to a caregiver, knowing their loved one is safe and being cared for by professionals.”

COA contracts with 11 adult day care programs within its five-county service area – including eight that serve Hamilton County – to offer services to individuals enrolled in its programs. In 2025, 356 clients participated in adult day services, receiving more than 42,000 days of care. A client’s assigned care manager determines if they are eligible – and would benefit from – the service. Transportation can also be provided. For individuals who are not enrolled in COA’s programs, most centers offer a private pay option.

Statewide, Adult Day Ohio says adult day services help older adults remain in their homes and communities longer by providing socialization, support and care tailored to daily needs, while also giving caregivers respite and peace of mind.

“Adult day services are relief, dignity and connection — all in one place,” said Karen Williams of Lincoln Heights Outreach in Hamilton County. “We’re helping older adults remain in their homes and communities for as long as possible while giving families the support they need to keep going. Adult day services step into that space and say, ‘You don’t have to do this by yourself.’”

Adult day centers in COA’s service area are equipped to support people with dementia, mobility issues and other medical needs. Each center has a licensed nurse on site and offers activities, meals, medication support, personal care assistance and opportunities for socialization.

Francisca Wilson of Restoration Adult Day Services said adult day programs are a community-based, non-residential option that can help families maintain stability, avoid caregiver exhaustion and delay institutionalization. She said they can benefit older adults with or without cognitive impairment who need daytime support, social engagement or health monitoring.

At Day Share Senior Services, a typical day might begin with coffee or another beverage, a breakfast bar, newspaper discussion and light exercise, followed by lunch, games and other activities such as bingo, cards, corn hole or outings. Jeff Gault, Day Share’s chief operating manager, said the goal is to keep participants engaged and socially connected while giving caregivers confidence that their loved one is safe and enjoying the day. “Adult day care can be the difference between having and keeping a job,” he said.

Anita, a nurse and caregiver whose father used adult day services through Council on Aging’s ESP program, agreed. “It has been a tremendous help to my husband and me,” Anita said. “[Dad] is able to go to the adult day center five days a week while we’re at work. I would have had to quit my job, and I can’t quit my job – I have two kids in college.”

According to COA’s Goubeaux, family caregivers may be reluctant to try an adult day center. They may say, “No, I don’t think she would like that,” or “I just don’t think he would agree to go.” But she advises against saying “no” right away.

Providers say that hesitation is common, but Gault said he encourages hesitant families to visit a center and talk with participants or other families already using the service. Restoration Adult Day’s Wilson agreed and said adult day services can be a “win-win situation,” allowing older adults to spend time with peers and return home at the end of the day while giving caregivers time to work or rest.

“We’ve seen seniors come in quiet, withdrawn or uncertain — and over time, you see them open up, laugh and engage,” Lincoln Heights’ Williams said.

What are some signs that it might be time to consider adult day services? Providers say they include growing caregiver burnout, concern about leaving a loved one alone, increasing confusion, loneliness, inactivity or challenges keeping a daily routine. They also say getting help before things reach a crisis point can reduce stress for caregivers and provide older adults with routine, companionship and support during the day.