Why Physicians Refer Patients to Adult Day Programs Like St. Elizabeth’s

Jason Johnston
Aug 8
3 min read

Updated: Aug 11

Doctor Referring Patients to Adult Day Programs

As the healthcare landscape shifts toward more holistic, community-based care, physicians are increasingly turning to adult day programs like St. Elizabeth’s Adult Day Care Centers as trusted partners in patient wellness. These programs offer more than just daytime supervision—they provide structure, socialization, and health support that help seniors and adults with disabilities thrive outside of traditional medical settings in a safe environment.

🩺 Why Physicians Make the Referral?

1. Improved Patient Health & Functionality

Physicians recognize that many chronic conditions—like diabetes, dementia, Alzheimer's, stroke, mobility issues, cardiovascular disease, and more—require more than prescriptions.

Adult day programs offer:

Licensed Nurse-Led Centers
Medication Administration
Nutritionally balanced meals
Physical activity and cognitive stimulation
Regular health monitoring

This consistent, non-invasive support can lead to improved patient outcomes, increased adherence to care plans, and reduced emergency visits.

2. Reduced Caregiver Burnout

Many physicians treat both the patient and their family caregiver. When caregivers become overwhelmed, patient health suffers. Referring an adult to a day center provides caregivers with vital respite, allowing them time to work, rest, or attend to personal needs while knowing their loved one is in a safe and nurturing environment.

3. Delaying Nursing Home Placement

A woman is being admitted to a nursing home

One of the most effective ways to prevent premature institutionalization is through structured daytime care and support. St. Elizabeth’s keeps clients engaged, active, and supported, often helping them live at home longer. Physicians value this alternative as it supports the patient’s independence and reduces overall healthcare costs.

What Makes St. Elizabeth’s the Preferred Choice?

At St. Elizabeth’s Adult Day Care Centers, we don’t just provide care—we provide community. Here’s why we’re trusted by doctors throughout the St. Louis area:

Licensed nursing staff on site
Customized care plans in collaboration with physicians
Social and enrichment programming designed to support mental and emotional health
A welcoming, safe, and culturally aware environment for seniors of all backgrounds

We maintain open communication with referring physicians and families, so everyone involved in the individual’s care stays informed and aligned.

A Doctor’s Referral Makes a Difference

When a physician refers their patient to an adult day care center, they’re doing more than writing a recommendation—they’re building a bridge to long-term wellness and dignity.

Programs like St. Elizabeth’s extend healthcare beyond the clinic, helping individuals flourish in a supportive setting while relieving pressure on the healthcare system.

A Smarter, More Affordable Care Choice

Choosing the right care for a loved one is a big decision—and cost shouldn’t be the only factor, but it’s an important one.

At St. Elizabeth’s Adult Day Care Centers, our programs offer the same compassionate, supervised environment as higher-cost options—but at a fraction of the price.

According to national averages: