A Supportive Option for Adults with Ongoing Care Needs
For many families caring for an adult with intellectual, developmental, or medical needs, finding the right daily support can make all the difference. Day Activity and Health Services (DAHS), known as Day Habilitation, and formerly Adult Day Centers — provide a safe, engaging environment where individuals can spend the day building skills, socializing, and receiving health support while caregivers work, rest, or attend to other responsibilities.
In Texas, these programs are licensed by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC).
What Is an Day Habilitation Center?
Day Habilitation Centers offer structured, daytime care for adults who may have physical disabilities, chronic medical conditions, or developmental differences. Participants typically attend for part or all of the day — often up to 10 hours — in a supportive, community-based setting.
Most centers provide a combination of:
- Health and wellness monitoring, including medication reminders or nursing care
- Social and recreational activities, like music, crafts, exercise, or community outings
- Life skills and enrichment, such as cooking, budgeting, or communication skills
- Meals and transportation, depending on the program
- Caregiver respite, giving families peace of mind while they work or take a needed break
These programs are designed to help individuals stay active, engaged, and connected — and to help prevent unnecessary nursing home placement by supporting independence in a community setting.
Who Can Attend?
Eligibility varies by program, but DAHS centers generally serve adults with chronic medical conditions, physical disabilities, or developmental disabilities who benefit from supervision and daytime support. Some programs accept individuals funded through Medicaid waiver programs (like HCS or CLASS), while others offer private pay options or accept Veterans Affairs benefits.
Families can contact centers directly to ask about admission criteria, funding sources, and available openings.
What to Look for When Choosing a Center
When exploring adult day centers in the San Antonio area, consider the following questions:
- Is the program licensed by HHSC? They maintain a list here.
- Does it offer medical services, or is it primarily social and recreational?
- How does staff support each participant’s individual needs and goals?
- What are the hours, transportation options, and costs?
- How does the program encourage community involvement and independence?
Many families find it helpful to tour several centers, meet the staff, and talk to other families who use their services. The right fit will feel both safe and welcoming — a place where your loved one is known, valued, and encouraged to grow.
Planning for the Next Stage in Adulthood
As your loved one reaches adulthood, their needs may shift toward long-term housing, employment, and community inclusion. Adult day programs can play a key role in this transition, supporting skill-building and independence while helping families plan for the future.
To take the next step, explore our Age 22 and Older Checklist — a guide to navigating housing options, waiver eligibility, employment supports, and ongoing advocacy as your loved one moves into adulthood.
Finding a Day Hab in San Antonio
The San Antonio area offers a range of licensed day programs, each with its own focus and community. You can explore local options and learn more about the DAHS program through SACRD’s online directory and glossary:
👉 Learn more about Day Activity and Health Services (DAHS) at SACRD.org.
At SACRD, we’re here to help families navigate the many care options available in our community — connecting you with the programs, people, and resources that help your loved one thrive.
