1. a program of outpatient treatment and support services provided for individuals discharged from an institution, such as a hospital or mental health facility, to help maintain improvement, prevent relapse, and aid adjustment of the individual to the community. Aftercare may also refer to inpatient services provided for convalescent patients, such as those who are recovering from surgery.

2. a form of day care, as in programs designed to care for children after school. See child care.