Beyond Care: Adult Day Services as a Pathway to Independence

Adult Day Service (ADS) programs offer more than just care and activities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities; effective ADS programs also provide tailored support to foster independence and a sense of purpose. 

At Easterseals Southern California, our ADS program collaborates directly with individuals to focus on their specific goals and interests. From educational opportunities to skill building, our person-centered ADS program is designed to foster personal growth and community involvement.  

What are Adult Day Services? 

Adult Day Services are community-based day programs that offer therapeutic, social and health related activities to support people with disabilities to live in their home and community rather than institutional settings. 

While all Adult Day Services programs differ slightly, typically they provide educational and skill building activities, community engagement, and volunteer opportunities, all aimed at enhancing everyday skills and overall well-being.  

Who are Adult Day Services For?  

Adult Day Services programs are designed for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. These day programs provide support for people who need supervision outside of the home during the day so they can remain living in their community rather than in an institutional setting.  

ADS programs are also great for caregivers who are seeking daytime respite so they can work regular business hours or take care of themselves during the day.   

The Long-Term Benefits of Adult Day Services  

In the United States, approximately 591,000 individuals with disabilities are supported by ADS programs (Gerken and Baumgartner, 2023). Research has shown that ADS can have a significant positive impact on the well-being of adults and their caregivers, including:  

• Improved Physical and Mental Health. According to a study by the National Adult Day Services Association (NADSA), participants in ADS programs experience improved physical and mental health outcomes. For example, individuals who attend ADS programs are less likely to experience depression and anxiety, and they often have better overall health compared to those who do not participate in such programs.
• Community Integration. ADS offers a productive, engaging service experience where individuals continue to develop and grow to reach their potential in their adult years alongside their peers. This looks different for everyone, but for some individuals it means independent living, working a fulfilling job, going to college, or volunteering in the community.
• Care Cost Reduction. Additionally, ADS programs can help reduce the need for more intensive and costly long-term care options, such as nursing homes. By providing a supportive environment and access to healthcare services, ADS can help adults maintain their independence and live in their own homes for longer periods. 

How Do Adult Day Services Improve People's Lives?  

ADS programs offer a range of benefits that can significantly improve the quality of life for participants and their caregivers. Some of the key benefits include: 

1. Social Interaction: ADS programs provide opportunities for adults with disabilities to socialize and build relationships with their peers. This social interaction can help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.
2. Mental Stimulation: Engaging in purposeful activities and educational programs can help keep participants' minds active and improve cognitive function.
3. Physical Activity: Many ADS programs offer exercise classes and physical activities that can help improve participants' physical health and mobility.
4. Greater Independence: Life Skills Coaches work alongside participants to identify opportunities for independence, whether that’s getting a job, going to college, volunteering in the community, or living on their own.
5. Healthcare Support: ADS programs often provide access to healthcare supports, such as medication management, health monitoring, and therapy. This can help participants manage chronic conditions and maintain their overall health.
6. Respite for Caregivers: ADS programs offer caregivers a much-needed break from their caregiving responsibilities. This respite can help reduce caregiver stress and prevent burnout, allowing caregivers to continue providing care for their loved ones. 

What is Unique about Easterseals’ Adult Day Services?  

Easterseals Southern California’s ADS program provides innovative, person-centered services and support. The phrase “nothing about us without us” is evident in the way we provide services, ensuring that the individuals we serve have a say in how they spend their day with us and how our program is run.  

We are continually evaluating and innovating our services for better experience and outcomes. Here are just a few highlights that set our program apart:

• Person-Centered Approach: Individuals who use Easterseals ADS actively shape their own daily schedules, activities, goals and staff support. Our Personal Outcomes Measures (POMS) approach explores an individual’s hopes, interests, and aspirations, connecting them with the tools and resources they need to make their dreams a reality.
• Tailored Support: The program meets people where they are, especially supporting those with complex needs.
• Continuous Innovation: Easterseals consistently evaluates and improves service delivery for better outcomes and excellence.

• Virtual Services: Our Virtual Community program and Technology Lending Library offer alternatives to in-person services, providing devices, training, internet access, online courses, and virtual social connection.

  

• Communication Support through Tech: Personalized assessments and technology help those with significant communication challenges.
• Advocacy: The participant-run advocacy group "Our Voices Matter" enables participants to advocate for themselves, address important topics, and engage with legislators at the local and state level.
• High Staff Retention: Life Skills Coach retention at Easterseals exceeds 80% annually, far surpassing industry averages and ensuring consistent, familiar support. 

What Does a Typical Day Look Like in ADS?  

It varies widely, and that’s a good thing! When participants come into the center, they can make decisions about how they want to spend their day.  

For some, it may be going out into the community to volunteer at a senior center or doing their weekly grocery shopping. For others, it might be staying at the day center to take a cooking class, learn a new skill, or take a physical fitness class.  

Participants also have the option to access our Virtual Community online hub from home or from the center to engage with other participants online, learn new skills, and even teach courses to their peers.  

Here are some more examples of opportunities available to Easterseals ADS participants:    

• Volunteering
• Grocery shopping
• Visiting a library
• Resume building
• Job searching
• Cooking
• Exercise
• Technology training
• Visit
• Virtual Community online courses
• And so much more…  

Real Stories of Impact  

From taking college courses to teaching peers new skills, the stories below of real Easterseals ADS participants celebrate their achievements and the show how the right support can lead to incredible opportunities.  

Michelle Attends Culinary School: In this story, discover how Easterseals supported ADS participant Michelle through her culinary school journey. Read her story here.  

Eddie Teaches Art: After a life-saving heart transplant surgery, Eddie discovered a new passion for creating art. Now, he teaches drawing to his peers through Easterseals Virtual Community. Read more and watch his video.  

Participants Enroll in College: With the support of Easterseals, several ADS participants enrolled in adaptive courses at Cerritos College. Read their story here.  

Arturo Leads Dance Class: Arturo started attending Easterseals Southern California’s Paramount ADS program in 2024, where he jumped right in and started sharing his talent for dance with his coaches and fellow participants. Read his story here.  

Jose Shares His Passion for Singing: In this video, ADS participant Jose shares his passion for singing mariachi music. Watch the video here.  

Adult Day Services play a crucial role in supporting the well-being of adults with disabilities and their caregivers. By offering a safe and engaging environment, Easterseals ADS program helps improve participants' physical, mental, and emotional health, leading to greater independence.  

Visit our website to learn more about Easterseals Adult Day Services program and about career opportunities.