Date: 01-25-2011
Oppose ADHC Closure
I'm asking you to oppose the proposed closure of ADHCs in California, as presented by the Governor for the following reasons:
- Closing ADHCs (Adult Day Health Centers) would cost $51million more than it would save taxpayers.
- The current 12.4% unemployment rate in California would increase.
- The adults served by ADHCs are selected by the state to have services rendered that prevent institutionalization.
- The nursing, physical and occupational services provided in ADHCs allow the elderly adults to maintain their mobility, mental acuity, and independence.
- Nursing services prevent the overcrowding of emergency rooms and Primary Care Physicians are better able to delegate and manage their patients' needs with nurses monitoring health parameters.
- Social services rendered provide mental health screening, and case management, and provide legal advocacy and protection of this vulnerable population.
- Provide opportunities for socialization, friendships, and exposure to others in their generation.
It would be wise to maintain ADHCs in California, just to maintain the status of the current aging population. However, the real reason you should keep ADHCs in California is that the number of elderly will increase as the Baby Boomer cohort ages. I'm sure you have heard how ornery these newer elderly are, and if you think they will be content to sit at home isolated due to decreased physical mobility, relying on Access Transportation, and socially marginalized, I can wholeheartedly assure you they are not! Having ADHCs already established in the community will be of more benefit, rather than having to re-open centers, train inexperienced staff, and create new networks in a community.
Sincerely,
Megan Singer MSW
El Camino Adult Day Health Care Center
15429 Crenshaw Blvd., Suite D.
Gardena, CA 90249
Ph: 301.679.7624 Fax: 310.679.6346
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