In 1989 the School of Health Professions at the University of Missouri-Columbia acknowledged the crisis situation which faces our country's aging population and opened the Eldercare Center, the only state-licensed adult day health care program serving families in Columbia.  Citizens for adult day-care had worked for several years to start an adult day-care program, but could not gain adequate funding.  The School of Health Professions worked with this group for over two years to open the center.  The Eldercare Center was established as a self-supporting program.  The University of Missouri-Columbia provides space, utilities, insurance and housekeeping.  Fees for service and community support must help maintain the program.

The Eldercare Center is open Monday through Friday, from 7:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m.  A daily fee for services is charged.  Medicaid pays for adult day health care.  Some insurance policies pay, but Medicare does not.  Financial assistance is available for those individuals/families who qualify.  The Eldercare Center is a United Way agency and receives funds from the City of Columbia and Boone County.  The daily charge includes a hot noon meal provided to all participants.
  "I don't know what I would do if it weren't for this place."

Eldercare Center participants are frail, impaired and/or isolated older adults who benefit from therapeutic activities, exercise, nursing care and supervision. Participants attend one to five days weekly and enjoy socializing at Eldercare while their family caregiver receives respite, enabling them to work or enjoy some free time.