During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the availability and funding of adult day care services in the city and county, highlighting significant challenges and potential solutions. The conversation revealed that while there are various adult day care options for individuals who can afford to pay, the overall capacity remains strained, similar to the ongoing issues faced in childcare services.

Officials noted that the county has contracts with six agencies to provide adult day care, but the demand often exceeds supply. This situation is exacerbated for families who rely on these services to allow caregivers to work or take necessary breaks. The discussion emphasized the importance of adult day care not only for quality of life but also as a component of economic development, as it enables caregivers to maintain employment.

Concerns were raised regarding funding, particularly a recent $300,000 decrease in the budget for adult day care services, despite an increase in reimbursement rates to $84 per day. Officials explained that this funding shift was necessary to support in-home aid services, which have seen increased demand. They acknowledged the need to evaluate the situation further in the upcoming fiscal year to address the balance between funding and service availability.

The meeting underscored the critical role of adult day care in supporting families and the workforce, while also pointing to the need for ongoing assessment and potential adjustments in funding to meet the growing needs of the community.