Adult Day Care
Learn about Client Rights
Before you can solve a problem with an adult day care provider, learn what specific rights are guaranteed by law, assess whether any of them are being violated — and then file a complaint with the appropriate agency or individual if necessary.
Most adult day care centers are licensed by the state; however, some are not. If care is given by a provider that is not licensed, beware that state agencies will not step in to right the wrongs there. Instead, concerned clients or their advocates will be constrained to negotiating directly with the providers — or seeking help from advocacy organizations or lawyers.
In general, clients should expect and demand the following legal rights and obligations from an adult day care center:
- An assessment of their needs;
- Information about activities, center hours, and available services;
- Respectful and dignified treatment that includes privacy and confidentiality;
- Opportunities to participate in activities that fit individual interests and culture;
- Maximum independence — including the freedom to choose when to participate in programs, the ability to participate in planning activities, and the right to register a complaint without punishment;
- Freedom from restraint, abuse, or neglect;
- Social interaction and free communication with other clients;
- Nutritious meals in a clean and safe environment; and
- The right to choose a person to be notified in an emergency.
