Day centres and day care for older people

A day centre gives an older person company, activities and a meal for a day or part of a day, often with transport. It is also one of the most common ways of giving a family carer a regular break.

What day centres offer

• Social contact, activities, exercise and outings
• A hot meal and drinks
• Help with personal care, such as using the toilet, at many centres
• Specialist dementia day care with trained staff and a secure setting
• Sometimes extras such as bathing, hairdressing or chiropody

Who runs them

Councils, charities (such as local Age UK branches and dementia charities), care homes that open their doors to day visitors, and private providers. Some care homes offer day places, which can be a gentle way to get used to a home.

Costs and funding

Charges vary widely between areas and providers, so ask each centre for its daily rate and what transport and meals cost. If the council arranges a place after a care needs assessment, it is means-tested in the same way as home care, and your home is not counted. Day care is often agreed as support for a carer after a carer’s assessment. Attendance Allowance can help pay.

How to find a day centre

1. Ask the council’s adult social care team which day services it runs or funds.
2. Ask your local Age UK, carers’ centre or dementia charity.
3. Ask care homes near you whether they take day visitors.
4. Visit first, ideally with the person who will attend, and ask about transport, staffing and what happens if they become unwell.

Other ways to get a break

Home care visits, a sitting service or a short respite stay can work alongside day care. See respite care explained and companionship care.

Reviewed by The Care Panel team on 27 October 2026. This guide is general information about care in England, not legal, medical or financial advice. Rules and rates change; check with your council or an adviser before making decisions.