Adult day services centers have grown markedly since the first centers, as we know them today, opened in the United States in the 1950s. Given the demographics, we can expect the demand to increase beyond the estimated 4,500 centers already operating in the United States.

Starting an adult day center is not an easy task. Keeping one going after it has been launched is filled with challenges, too. But for those of us who know from our own experiences what day services mean for impaired adults and their family caregivers, the results are well worth the time, money and effort. Fortunately, many have gone before you and a number of excellent resources are available to you as you begin this endeavor.

NADSA Publications

• Secrets, Systems and Strategies for Excellence: Sourcebook for Directors and Administrators
• Secrets, Systems and Strategies for Excellence: Leader's Guide
• Standards and Guidelines for Adult Day Services
• Training the Program Assistant in Adult Day Services
   

There is a wealth of information you can learn by networking with people already in the business. Invest in resources written specifically for or by adult day services professionals. You don't have to be an expert to benefit from the national or state associations--just a member!

Some important first steps are:

1. Ensure that you are equipped to operate a business.
   - U.S. Small Business Administration
   - Independent Sector
    
2. Become familiar with any state-wide licensing and/or certification requirements, local and county building, zoning or fire/safety codes that may apply to adult day service operations within the jurisdiction of your proposed center.
   - State-by-State Regulations & Rates
   - National Standards and Guidelines for Adult Day Services
    
3. Learn more about adult day services.
   - Read our tutorial on Planning and Creating Successful Adult Day Services and Other Home and Community-Based Services
   - Visit some centers
   - Secrets, Systems and Strategies for Excellence: Sourcebook for Directors and Administrators
   - CARF (for national accreditation of adult day services)
   - Partners in Caregiving National Study of Adult Day Services
   - The Information Source for Adult Day Centers.
    
4. Join the National Adult Day Services Association and your state association .