In 1975, there were only 15 adult day centers. Today there are over 3,000, including the first for-profit ones, but 10,000 are needed, says Cox, who helps direct a program for the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation to foster innovations in adult day programs, especially those for people with dementia. Many were started by family members who saw a need. That's the story of Patricia Shull, who began the program Bob Sharpless attends. Many of the volunteers were caregivers to now deceased family members who had dementia.
Research shows that day programs can delay costly nursing home admissions by about four years.
Donna Sharpless hopes to keep Bob home much longer. Although he has difficulty speaking, she says he still communicates his love with looks and gestures. Inc. All rights reserved.