Glossary · Care settings

Day centre

Also known as: adult day centreIn Portuguese: Centro de dia

Short definition

A day centre is the Portuguese social care service that provides, during the day, a range of services to older people who still live at home, helping them remain in their social and family environment.

In plain language

The person spends the day at the centre and returns home in the late afternoon. Services usually include meals, social contact, activities, personal hygiene care and support. It helps prevent isolation and may delay the need for residential care, while also supporting families who provide care.

Related terms

Glossary edited by the RVer team. Definitions are for information and do not replace clinical, legal or tax assessment or advice.Reviewed on 7 October 2026