If you’re exploring senior day care for a loved one, you’re not alone. More families than ever are turning to adult day care services as a way to provide support, structure, and socialization for aging parents or spouses—especially when 24/7 care isn’t necessary.
But one of the first questions most caregivers ask is: How much does senior day care cost in 2025? Let’s break it down.
What Is Adult Day Care?
Adult day care provides supervised care and structured programming for older adults during daytime hours. Most programs offer meals, transportation, activities, and personal care in a community-based setting. Penn Village focuses on a holistic approach to senior care. Through cognitive stimulation, activities that promote exercise and physical well-being, and connection through social interaction, we are able to achieve better health outcomes for our participants.
Adult Day Care is designed to support:
- Seniors with memory loss or early dementia
- Individuals with intellectual disabilities or mental health disorders
- Adults with mobility, hearing, or sight impairment or other health needs
- Caregivers who need help during working hours or time away
Average Cost of Adult Day Care in 2025
According to national data, the average cost of adult day care in the U.S. is approximately $85 per day in 2025. However, that number can vary significantly depending on your location, the level of care required, and the types of services offered.
Here’s a general range:
| Service Type | Estimated Daily Rate |
| Basic Social Day Programs | $50–$85/day |
| Health-Focused or Medical Day Care | $85–$150/day |
| Memory Support/Alzheimer’s Programs | $90–$175/day |
At Penn Village, we offer flexible programming that can meet a wide range of care needs, from light support to more advanced memory care and structured activities.
What’s Included in the Cost?
While every center differs, our adult day care services include:
- Daily meals and snacks
- Supervised group activities (games, music, crafts, etc.)
- Transportation to and from the facility
- Personal care assistance (such as toileting or mobility support)
- Health monitoring or medication reminders
- Social engagement and cognitive stimulation
Facilities like Penn Village may also offer specialized programs for individual care, caregiver education, and emotional support groups.
Ways to Pay for Adult Day Care
Many families pay privately for adult day services, but there are several funding sources that can reduce or even cover the cost.
1. Veterans Benefits
Veterans and their spouses may qualify for VA-supported programs, which can help cover all or part of the cost of senior day care.
Learn more about available VA-supported programs here.
2. Medicaid & Waiver Program Assistance – The Community Healthchoices Waiver
In Pennsylvania and many other states, Medicaid may cover adult day services for eligible seniors. This often includes support through waiver programs that offer community-based care as an alternative to nursing homes. In Pennsylvania, adult daycare is covered through the Community Health Choices Waiver and OBRA waivers.
Explore Medicaid and waiver assistance options.
3. Long-Term Care Insurance
Some long-term care insurance policies cover adult day care. Check with your provider to see if your plan includes coverage for adult day services or respite care.
4. Private Pay & Sliding Scale Options
Facilities like Penn Village work with families directly to explore private pay options and may offer sliding scale fees or part-time rates based on need and eligibility.
Part-Time vs. Full-Time Attendance
The cost of care also depends on how frequently your loved one attends. Some families use services just once or twice a week, while others opt for full-time weekday support.
Typical pricing models include:
- Half day rates
- Daily rates
Choosing a flexible care schedule helps balance your family’s needs and budget.
Is Senior Day Care Worth It?
In short: yes. When compared to the cost of in-home care or assisted living, adult day services are often the most affordable care option—especially when you consider the benefits:
- Prevents isolation
- Supports mental and physical health
- Gives caregivers time to work, rest, or recharge
- Delays or prevents institutional care
For many families, it’s the ideal balance of support and independence.
Getting started with Adult Daycare in Philadelphia
If you’re considering adult day services in the Philadelphia area, Penn Village is here to guide you. We’ll walk you through available programs, help you understand your financial options, and design a care plan that works for your loved one and your family.
👉 Contact us today to learn more or schedule a visit.