Change is hard. Making a change in your life from what you are currently doing and trying something new can be challenging. When you reach a transition, it can be stressful, challenging, scary, and sometimes overwhelming. To help ease the stress of transitioning, we’ve provided some questions for you to consider when you tour a Day Support Program.

As you consider a program, ask yourself:

• Does the atmosphere feel comfortable and welcoming?
• Does it meet my physical needs (for example, wheelchair accessibility, grab bars in restrooms, space to move around)?
• Does it meet my emotional, behavioral, and personal care needs?
• Does it meet my sensory needs (for example, lighting, space, noises)?
• Is it within a reasonable distance from my home, so I’m not traveling further than I want?
• Is transportation provided to the program?
• What are the days and hours, and do I have to come full time?
• Are the staff able to answer my questions, and are they engaging with me?
• Do they offer the services that I want (for example, Group Day, Community Engagement, Community Coaching)?
• Do their hours of service align with when I want to be supported (program days and hours)?
• Do they do the things I like to do (on-site and in the community)?
• Are there examples of what goes on each day and what I will be able to learn?
• Do I know anyone else that attends there, and if not, do I think I could make friends here?
• Does the program make me feel ‘good’ when I am there?
• Are the mission, vision, and values of the Day Support provider aligned with yours?

Make sure you do your research.  Look online at websites, reach out to your friends and family, and see if they have heard ‘good things’ about the programs you are touring.  Remember, this is your choice!  Take time to make a decision that is right for you.

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