Learn More About Adult Day Services
The primary purpose of adult day services is the protection of adults who are participants in adult day services centers. Minimum requirements are designed to maintain adequate health, safety, and supervision of adults while in adult day services programs. Licensure rules for adult day services centers may be accessed at the Secretary of State's website. https://publications.tnsosfiles.com/rules/1240/1240-07/1240-07-10.20230123.pdf
Tennessee's adult day services centers are inspected throughout the year to ensure that providers continue to meet licensing requirements.
Adult day services centers are required to post their license. Agencies are also investigated in response to complaints.
Procedures for Becoming a Licensed Adult Day Services Center
1. Attend and complete an informational intake meeting provided by the Department. Contact ChildCarePrelicensure.DHS@tn.gov for details and dates
2. Attend and complete pre-orientation for new Directors Contact ChildCarePrelicensure.DHS@tn.gov for details
3. Obtain and read Adult Day Services Standards
4. Obtain a Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) – by calling 1-800-829-4933 or by visiting IRS web site
5. Obtain a Use and Occupancy Permit, Business Permit and any other required permits
6. (DHS) Assign a Licensing Consultant (LC).
7. (DHS assigned Licensing Consultant) Schedule a site visit to the proposed adult day services facility. The LC will visually inspect and assess the suitability of the facility for adult day services.
8. Submit a floor plan and photos of the entire facility to include any outdoor space that will be utilized by participants.
9. Submit a completed application and appropriate fee (Non-refundable). To obtain an application click the links below. The fee must be in the form of a certified check, business check, government agency check or money order made out to the Treasurer, State of Tennessee.
The Director and / or owner must submit the following items with the application:
- Proof of Education (copy of diploma or degree)
- Proof of Experience (a list of previous work history with employer contact information that can be verified)
- Three non-related references with contact information
- Documentation of the agency’s business organization
10. (DHS Licensing Consultant ) Make requests for the following inspections: State Fire Marshal, local fire department, local health department (Environmentalist).
Note: The potential licensee is responsible for ensuring the facility is compliant with state fire, local fire, and environmental health requirements. A written approval must be received prior to the Department issuing a temporary license.
11. Schedule and complete criminal background check (CBC) process.
12. Submit CBC clearance letters for all employees to the Licensing Consultant.
13. Upon demonstration of compliance of all laws and regulations governing the adult day service center and if the applicant has satisfactorily met the requirements, the Department shall issue a temporary license for a period of six (6) months.
Procedures for Requesting an Exemption from Licensure
Exception for Limited Respite Care Services
Adult Day Services provides an organized program in a community group setting to promote social, physical and emotional well-being. These programs offer a variety of activities designed to meet the needs and interests of each older adult who receives care. Listed below are some tips to help you choose an adult day service center that meets the needs of your family.
TIPS FOR CHOOSING ADULT DAY SERVICES CENTERS
1. Become familiar with rules and laws regarding adult day services in the State of Tennessee. Adult Day Services Standards
2. Locate a list of adult day care service providers in your area and contact each one to schedule a tour of the facility.
3. Ask questions of the staff to determine if the facility is a good fit for your loved one and will meet the needs of both of you and your loved one. (Examples of some questions to ask include but are not limited to):
- What program services and activities are provided?
- Are nutritious meals and snacks provided?
- Is assistance provided with feeding, toileting, etc.?
- Are there accommodations for special needs such as wheelchair or hearing / visual impairment?
- What is the staff to participant ratio?
- What are the credentials of the staff?
- Is this facility licensed and if so by what Department?
- Does this agency have a history of non-compliance with state regulations or valid complaints of improper care?
- Is the financial assistance available?
- What insurance do you accept?
- What are the fees?
- Are there additional resources available?
4. Maintain open communication with the adult day services provider to ensure your loved one is receiving care that meets the expectations of the family as well as the needs of the adult participant.
Additional Resources: National Adult Day Services Association; National Family Caregiver Support Program
Abuse Registry: The Department of Health Abuse Registry includes the names of persons who have abused, neglected, exploited or misappropriated property of vulnerable persons. Link to Tennessee Department of Health Abuse Registry
Training and resources are powerful tools that enable adult day services providers and family caregivers to increase their knowledge and awareness as they help care for those who need adult day services or other in-home care.
Resources for Adult Day Services Providers and Family Caregivers:
- Administration for Community Living (ACL)
- AgeWell Middle Tennessee | Telephone: (615) 353-4235
- Alzheimer’s Tennessee | Telephone: 1-888-326-9888
- American Psychological Association
- Council On Aging of Middle Tennessee | Telephone: (615) 353-4235
- Fifty Forward | Telephone: 615-743-3400
- Greater Nashville Regional Council
- Mental Health America of the Mid-South
- National Adult Protective Services Organization
- Tennessee Association of Adult Day Services
- Tennessee Commission on Aging and Disability | Telephone: 1-866-836-6678
- Tennessee Disability Coalition | Brain Links | Telephone: (615) 383-9442
- Tennessee Division of TennCare
- Tennessee Justice Center | Telephone: (615) 255-0331
- Tennessee Respite Coalition (TRC)
- U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
- American Association of Retired Persons Website