County to increase contract for adult day care services to avoid service interruptions for elderly clients

Rick Hall, adult services division, Forsyth County Department of Social Services, briefed commissioners on March 24 about a proposed amendment to the county’s contract with Senior Services, Inc. (Elizabeth and Bridal Day Care Center) to maintain adult day care and adult day health services for elderly clients.

Hall said the current contract’s not‑to‑exceed amount of $135,753 would be increased by $36,000 to a new not‑to‑exceed total of $171,753 to avoid a mid‑year suspension of services during the remainder of the fiscal year. The adult day services provide daytime care and respite that many family caregivers rely on to maintain employment and ensure continuous care for clients.

Hall explained the underlying issue: state adult day funding has been flat, and in prior years Senior Services had operated at rates below industry levels before increasing daily rates to $60 for adult day care and $70 for adult day health. Because prior donor support and one‑time funding are not a sustainable solution, the amendment funds the program through the end of the fiscal year while staff expect state allocations to cover the service next fiscal year.

Commissioners asked clarifying questions and staff confirmed that Senior Services does not plan to raise rates next year and that the county has adjusted internal service levels so long‑term changes need not be made for clients. Hall said funding for the amendment will come from existing county operating budgets and the adult services division will monitor state funding next year.

The resolution to authorize the contract amendment was placed on the regular meeting agenda for formal action.