Frequently Asked Questions
How often does my family member have to attend?
It is suggested, that when a member first starts and/or one wants to fully benefit from the program, they attend at least two to three days a week. These members seem to make a much easier transition, become comfortable with having a familiar routine and become more fully engaged. However, some members may attend less frequently.
I am a Veteran. Will VA cover my costs?
Some of our centers are contracted with the VA North Texas Health Care System, complying with the VA Community Adult Day Health Care Program (CADHC) regulations. A staff member can assist a family in contacting VA to find out if you are eligible for this benefit which will pay all of the daily fees for eligible veterans.
What if my family member doesn’t want to participant in activities?
We understand that planned activities are not for everyone. Some members are more interested in helping with activities or other “jobs” where they can feel needed. Throughout the center, books, games, puzzles readily available in addition to having someone to talk to nearby.
Does insurance cover the cost of day services?
Almost all long term care insurance policies will cover the cost. A staff member can assist a family in verifying benefits with their Long Term Care insurance provider.
What are the qualifications of the staff?
Each staff member is carefully selected, screened and a criminal background check completed before employment. Staff is specifically trained in best practices of dementia care, including skills and techniques for behavior acceptance, reassurance, enabling, and using cues & prompts to appropriately assist our members.
All staff is certified in CPR/first aid; and receive at least 12 hours of extensive ongoing training throughout the year.
What is my loved-one doesn’t want to come to the center?
People with dementia are usually reluctant the first few times as memory loss tends to cause fear and uncertainty with any new situation. Frequently the ones that were the most adamant in the beginning are the same ones that want to come every day once they adjust.
Staff works closely with families to find creative solutions for persuading a loved-one to attend to the center on a regular basis. The more often they attend in the first few weeks the quicker they adjust and feel comfortable.
Is there anyone at the center that can administer medications?
Yes, there is a licensed nurse on duty each day that can administer medications and monitor care.
Is there a plan for emergencies?
In addition to the center’s written policies regarding a medical emergency for a member, there are extensive written policies and procedures for emergency preparedness and responses to variety of potential internal and external emergencies. The centers’ plan addresses situations such as fire, failure of heating or cooling, power outage, explosion, hurricane, tornado, flood, extreme ice/snow, wildfire and hazardous materials accident. In addition, fire and disaster drills are conducted monthly.
What about meals and snacks if there’s a special diet or food allergy?
Friends Place prepares meals onsite making it easy to accommodate special diets, food restrictions and/or individual food preferences. All lunch menus, including our snack menu, are review by a licensed dietitian to ensure members receive the diet as ordered by their physicians.
Is there anyplace to isolate someone if they get sick?
If a member becomes ill or has a medical emergency, they are cared for in the nurse’s office or in the center’s bedroom to ensure full privacy. Staff remain with them until the family and/or paramedics arrive.
What if my family member gets tired or needs to rest?
The center has a bedroom in addition to a large number of recliner chairs to accommodate members wanting to rest or nap.
Does the center provide transportation?
Transportation is not provided by most of the centers but can often be arranged through DART Paratransit services or private senior transportation services. Check with staff for more details on transportation available in your community.
Does a person have to have a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or dementia to enroll as a member of Friends Place?
Our programs and services are designed specifically for those with memory problems but members are not required to have an actual diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or other dementias. Members with Parkinson’s, mild cognitive impairment and other older adults do benefit from our programs since they focus on both cognitive and physical wellness.
Do you offer half-days or drop-in services?
The centers are open from 7:30 am to 6:00pm and members may attend for any 5 hour period during that time with a reservation. Members are not allowed to drop-in and need to make reservations in advance. Reservations enable the centers to properly plan for meals, staffing and maintain our 1:5 ratio. Usually staff can accommodate a same day reservation.
Can I volunteer there for community service?
Students and employees often volunteer at Friends Place to earn community service hours for work, honor society or other service related organizations. Those needing to do community service for violations or sometimes for other purposes might need to contact a not-for-profit organization.
Are meals included in the daily fee?
Yes, a light breakfast, lunch and planned snacks are included in the fee. We prepare a nice, large hot meal everyday onsite – complete with hot, fresh baked rolls and delicious desserts. Lunch is served in a lovely dining room with linen napkins and fresh flowers on the table from 12:30 to 1:30 pm.
What should I do first if I’m interested in enrolling my loved-one?
- Call and arrange for a tour of the center
- Complete an application for enrollment
- Schedule a second, shorter tour/visit and bring your loved-one for a brief assessment within our setting
- Complete enrollment process with a staff member at the center, arrange start date and reserve days for remainder of the month