What to Ask When Touring an Adult Day Care Center

Choosing an adult day care center for your loved one can feel overwhelming at first. Every program looks a little different—some focus on social activities, others emphasize health monitoring or therapy. The best way to know if it’s the right fit is to schedule a tour and ask the right questions. Your observations and instincts during that visit often tell you more than any brochure can.

Before You Schedule a Tour

Start by researching local centers online. Look for licensed programs like Penn Village Adult Day Care in Philadelphia that offer both engaging activities and personalized care plans. Read through their FAQs to get familiar with daily routines, meals, and transportation options.

Bring along a list of your loved one’s priorities—medical needs, social preferences, and favorite hobbies. A clear picture of what matters most helps you ask targeted questions and evaluate how well the program aligns with their lifestyle.

Questions to Ask About Care and Staffing

• What is your staff-to-participant ratio? Smaller groups often mean more attention and personal connection.
• What training do staff members receive? Look for certifications in CPR, first aid, and dementia care.
• How do you handle health emergencies? Reliable centers have clear protocols and on-site staff ready to respond quickly.
• Is there a nurse or healthcare professional available during the day? Medical oversight offers added peace of mind for families.

At Penn Village, each team member is trained to support both physical and emotional well-being, with specialized experience in aging, disabilities, and cognitive care.

Questions About Daily Life and Activities

Ask about the rhythm of a typical day—structured programs tend to reduce anxiety and boost memory. Activities should reflect different abilities and interests, from gentle movement to creative engagement.

• What kinds of activities are offered? You might see art, music, games, or wellness classes like those in our Senior Activities Program.
• Are participants free to choose activities? Autonomy encourages confidence and motivation.
• How do you handle quiet or rest time? Everyone needs downtime—ask how it’s built into the schedule.

You can get a sense of our programming by reading about the Penn Village Adult Day Care Experience and exploring how structure and creativity work together to support engagement.

Questions About Meals, Transportation, and Accessibility

• Are meals and snacks included? Ask if dietary restrictions are accommodated and if menus are reviewed by a nutritionist.
• Do you provide transportation? Reliable centers coordinate pickup and drop-off to reduce family stress.
• Is the facility fully accessible? Check ramps, restrooms, and activity areas for ease of movement.

Assessing Emotional and Social Fit

Observe how staff greet participants and interact with them. Do they speak kindly and use names? Are people smiling, chatting, and engaged? The energy in the room often speaks louder than words.

Many families notice a difference right away during a tour at Penn Village: a calm, respectful environment where participants are genuinely connected. Visit our Whole-Body Wellness page to see how we integrate social, physical, and emotional care.

What to Watch Out For

• Lack of structure or supervision
• Strong odors, cluttered areas, or unclean bathrooms
• Unengaged or overworked staff
• Participants appearing bored or restless

If something feels off, trust your instincts. The right center should feel bright, organized, and caring from the first step inside.