If you’ve been searching for senior daycare options, you may have come across different terms that all seem to describe similar services. So what’s the deal—are they all the same thing? What is another name for senior daycare? And more importantly, how do you know what’s right for your loved one?
Let’s break it down together.
What Is Another Name for Senior Daycare?
Senior daycare goes by many names depending on the provider, type of care, and even the region you’re in. Here are the most common alternative terms you’ll hear:
- Adult day care
- Adult day services
- Senior day services
- Adult day health care (ADHC)
- Adult day programs
- Elder care day services
- Senior activity center
- Daytime respite care
- Community care programs
- Day health programs
- Medical adult day care (for those with health needs)
- Social adult day care (for those without complex medical needs)
While each of these terms may sound a little different, they all refer to structured daytime programs designed to support older adults while giving family caregivers a break.
👉 Related: How much does senior daycare cost?
What Is Senior Daycare, Really?
At its core, senior daycare is a supervised daytime program that provides older adults with a safe place to enjoy activities, meals, companionship, and (when needed) health monitoring.
It’s not a nursing home. It’s not assisted living. It’s not a drop-off location.
It’s a supportive, welcoming space where seniors can stay engaged, build friendships, and continue living life on their terms—with dignity and joy.
Programs typically run during business hours, Monday through Friday, and may include:
- Group games, crafts, or gentle exercise
- Nutritious meals and snacks
- Assistance with daily activities of living. Things such as eating, ambulating, toileting, and socialization
- Social time, music, or themed activities
- Transportation to and from the center
👉 Related Content: Respite Care & Vacation Planning
The Benefits of Senior Daycare for Families
Whether you call it adult day services or senior day care, the goal is the same: support the well-being of both seniors and their caregivers.
For Seniors:
- Reduces isolation by encouraging social interaction
- Keeps the mind active with cognitive and creative activities
- Supports physical health through movement, nutrition, and healthcare access
- Builds routine and structure, which is especially helpful for those with memory loss
For Caregivers:
- Provides relief from daily responsibilities
- Allows time for work, rest, or errands
- Reduces stress and burnout
- Gives peace of mind knowing your loved one is in good hands
👉 Related: Why Adult Day Services Can Be a Lifesaver for Caregivers
How Penn Village Is Different
At Penn Village, we go beyond the basics of senior day care. We’ve built a community rooted in compassion, fun, and dignity—because our seniors deserve nothing less.
Here’s what sets us apart:
1. Person-First Approach
We don’t just provide services. We get to know each participant as a unique individual. From favorite games to preferred meals, our team designs daily routines based on what each person enjoys.
2. VA-Supported & Medicaid Programs
We proudly accept Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits, Medicaid, and waiver program assistance. This helps make high-quality care accessible to families across Philadelphia and beyond.
👉 Learn More About VA-Supported Programs
👉 Learn About Medicaid and Waiver Program Assistance
3. Enriching Activities Every Day
Our Senior Activities Program includes everything from art therapy and music to chair yoga, trivia, and seasonal celebrations. We believe in creating joy, not just passing time.
4. Open-Door Family Communication
Families are part of the care plan. We keep lines of communication open and encourage caregivers to share concerns, goals, and insights about their loved ones.
5. Convenient Tour Scheduling
Curious if we’re the right fit? Schedule a tour with us—it’s easy, friendly, and zero pressure.
Choosing the Right Adult Daycare Program
As you compare different senior day care centers—or whatever term they’re using—here are a few tips:
- Tour the center in person and ask to see the day’s schedule
- Look for licensing, health protocols, and staffing ratios
- Ask about transportation options, meals, and cost
- Find out if they accept Medicaid or VA funding
- Read reviews or talk to other families who use the center
Penn Village offers all of this and more. But we don’t expect you to just take our word for it. Come see for yourself.
Ready to Explore Senior Daycare Options?
Whether you’ve heard it called adult day services, elder care programs, or community-based support—it all comes down to one thing: helping seniors live life to the fullest while supporting their families.
Penn Village is here to make that easier, friendlier, and more joyful.