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OES > Publications > Resource Directory > Adult Day Services

Adult Day Services

Adult Day Services are designed to provide safe and compassionate therapeutic activity for seniors and for adults with disabilities. Adult Day programs also offer relief to caregivers who are juggling the task of caring for a family member with the demands of their daily lives. Although some have evening and weekend hours, most Adult Day programs generally operate during normal business hours, five days a week. Most programs do not provide 24-hour care.

There are 3 types of Adult Day programs: (1) social: provide meals, recreation and some health-related services, (2) medical/health: offer social activities as well as more intensive health and therapeutic services, and (3) specialized: provide services related to specific needs, such diagnosed dementias or developmental disabilities.

Adult Day programs are designed to meet individual needs and assist with information and referrals, personal care and activities of daily living, and with health monitoring.

Adult Day Program Goals

Adult Day programs offer the following benefits:

  • Provide a variety of meaningful, safe and compassionate activities to individuals.  
    • Activities are designed to have a purpose, be voluntary, and reflect positively the individual’s sense of self.  Some activities are for groups, while others are prepared to meet the needs of an individual. Activities are generally age-appropriate, and provide opportunities for physical fitness, creative self expression, participation in community outings and/or events and exploration of individual interests.  Stimulation of recent and long term memory is encouraged.  Quieting and stimulating activities are offered, depending on time of day and on individual needs.  
  • Focus on improving the individual’s sense of self, level of reported happiness, and on encouraging socialization.
    • Individuals are given opportunities for socialization, through interactions with other consumers and Adult Day staff/volunteers, and through activities offered.  Adult Day staff also offer programming based on individual needs, in accordance with the individual’s care plan.

Cost

Costs of Adult Day programs can range from $25 to over $100 per day.  Adult Day programs are usually not covered by insurance or by Medicare, but various federal and state programs can offer financial assistance.  The State of Maine offers financial assistance through its Section 61 funding program.  Please contact the Office of Elder Services to learn more about eligibility.  Other programs that can help with financial assistance for Adult Day services include the Veteran’s Administration, Elder Independence of Maine (EIM), and Partners in Caring.

Becoming a Licensed Adult Day in Maine

Adult Day programs serving more than 2 consumers must be licensed by the State of Maine. To become licensed to operate an Adult Day program in Maine, please visit the Division of Licensing and Regulatory Services for further details. 

Information on Adult Day Services in Maine

Links

Office of Elder Services Publications

The booklet "Home Care: Where to Find It", available from the Office of Elder Services, has a list of Adult Day Service providers throughout the state.

Note: This list will not include providers licensed after the publication of the booklet. For updates call or write the Office of Elder Services.

Adult Day Contacts

  • Office of Elder Services
    11 State House Station
    32 Blossom Lane
    Augusta, Maine 04333
  • Phone
    • Voice - 207-287-9200
    • Toll Free Nationwide - 1-800-262-2232
    • FAX: (207)287-9229
    • Toll free Statewide TTY - 1-800-606-0215
  • Community Services Licensing
    #11 State House Station
    Augusta, Maine  04333-0011
    Toll Free: 1-800-791-4080