Document Type
Occasional Paper
Publication Date
2-2004
Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this project was to gain insight into the quality of care and services provided through adult day care from the user’s perspective. Design and Methods: The project utilized 13 focus groups to explore aspects associated with user needs, preferences, and satisfaction with adult day care centers. Results: Focus group participants described aspects of adult day care that are important in delivering quality care, program features that are effective, and key areas in need of improvement. Ensuring the safety of clients; having caring, friendly, and compassionate staff available to provide one-on-one attention; engaging clients in stimulating activities; and providing the opportunity for clients to socialize with others were the most salient features of care. Potential areas of improvement for specific centers included enhanced communication with caregivers regarding clients’ well being and program events and activities, modifications to the physical environment, improving the quality of food, and ensuring consistent transportation services. In addition, focus group respondents noted that adult day care programs need to be better publicized and made known to the community. Implications: Findings identify dimensions useful for provider organizations and regulatory agencies to use in their quality improvement efforts.
Recommended Citation
Stern, Amy Leventhal and Caro, Francis G., "Consumer Perspectives on Quality in Adult Day Care" (2004). Gerontology Institute Publications. 4.
https://scholarworks.umb.edu/gerontologyinstitute_pubs/4
Included in
Family, Life Course, and Society Commons, Geriatrics Commons, Gerontology Commons, Public Health Commons
Comments
Working Paper.
Acknowledgments: This study was funded by a pilot study grant from the National Institute on Aging (Grant # 1 R03 AG20403-01). Ten Massachusetts adult day care facilities provided substantial help in recruiting and identifying study participants. We gratefully acknowledge this support. The results and conclusions are solely the responsibility of the authors.