noun. 1. an ongoing operation for treatment and restorative therapies offered to persons who have already been released from hospital care. This operative aims to upkeep the enhancement, prevention, and recurrence of illness or mental health episodes, and also acclimation of persons to their neighborhood or clime. Care provide subsequently to hospital care that patients who are in recovery from procedures are often directed to. 2. a type of daytime care, such as those systems created in effort to provide care to kids outside of school hours while parents attend work or other obligations.