What Is a Skilled Nursing Facility? Complete Guide for Families

skilled nursing facilities near me

When a loved one needs care, families often look for options that can provide more care for them. While looking for the services, the most common question that arises in mind is “What is a skilled nursing facility?” Knowing about nursing facilities can help you make the right decision for your loved ones. In this blog, we will discuss what skilled nursing facilities are, what services they offer, who requires these services, and how to choose the right nursing facility for your loved ones.

What Is A Skilled Nursing Facility?

A skilled nursing facility is a healthcare facility that provides 24-hour assistance from trained professionals and medical care, including therapists or registered nurses. In a regular nursing home, daily living support is provided, whereas skilled nursing facilities offer specialized medical care. These services are required at the time of recovery after hospital, which cannot be given properly at home. A skilled facility nursing community center is a place where your loved one can receive both assistance with daily activities and medical services. This care is provided until the patient is well enough to return home or long-term care. 

Services Offered In Skilled Nursing Facilities

The services in skilled nursing facilities go beyond basic assistance and include more advanced medical care. Common services include:

Medical Monitoring & Nursing Care

  • Nursing supervision is available 24 hours
  • Medication management
  • Wound care and dressing 
  • Injections and IV therapy

Rehabilitation Services

Many skilled facility nursing community centers offer therapy to help patients improve strength, mobility, and independence. These services may include:  

Physical therapy – This provides services to help improve mobility, balance, and strength  

Occupational therapy – This provides services focused on activities of daily living, such as eating, dressing, or bathing  

Speech therapy This supports people with problems with speaking or swallowing due to neurological conditions.  

Specialized Care

  • Stroke recovery
  • Post-surgical care
  • Respiratory therapy
  • Cardiac rehabilitation
  • chronic conditions care

Personal Care & Daily Support

In addition to medical care, skilled nursing facilities also offer personal assistance that includes:  

  • Assistance with bathing, dressing, or grooming. 
  • Social activities to keep residents engaged.
  • Nutritious meals tailored to health needs.

Who Needs A Skilled Nursing Facility?

skilled nursing facilities

Not every senior citizen needs a skilled nursing facility. This level of care is for:

  • Patients suffering from chronic conditions.
  • Patients who need support to regain strength and mobility.
  • Individuals who require more assistance before returning home.
  • Patients who are recovering from surgery, for instance, heart surgery. 
  • People who have complex medical needs, like wound care or frequent medication.

If the doctor asks for professional medical care for your loved one, then a skilled nursing facility is recommended.

Difference Between Skilled Nursing Facilities & Nursing Homes

Many people often have confusion between the two. They may sound similar, but they are not the same.

Skilled Nursing Facility:

A skilled nursing facility focuses more on medical care and rehabilitation. They have trained and licensed therapists and nurses. This place is often used for short-term care after hospitalization. 

Nursing Home:

A nursing home provides long-term care. This place is suitable for seniors who need someone to rely on. It mainly focuses on assistance with daily activities rather than medical services.

How Long Can Someone Stay In A Skilled Nursing Facility?

The duration of the patient’s stay in a skilled nursing facility depends on the condition:

Short-Term Stays – This includes a few weeks of stay after surgery.

Long-Term Stays – Patients with complex medical needs stay longer.

Health insurance programs like Medicare cover short-term skilled nursing care, but a long-term stay requires financial planning.

Benefits Of Skilled Nursing Facilities

Opting for a skilled nursing facility has several advantages for both families and patients:

  • Specialized therapies help patients to heal quickly.
  • Personalized care plans tailored to each patient’s health condition.
  • Include socialization with other residents, which can reduce feelings of loneliness.
  • 24/7 professional care, ensuring safety and immediate action if an emergency arises.
  • Families have peace of mind knowing their loved ones are in a managed health care environment.
what is a skilled nursing facility

How To Choose The Right Skilled Nursing Facility?

While searching for skilled nursing facilities near me, it is difficult to find the right place for your loved ones. Here are some tips to make the process easier:

Review The Reputation Of The Facility

  • Visit In Person.
  • Research online for reviews and ratings.
  • Seek recommendations from friends, family, or healthcare providers.
  • Observe cleanliness and comfort level.

Talk To Staff & Ask Questions About Patient Care

  • Check the Services Offered by them.
  • Observe the disposition and engagement level of residents.
  • Confirm the facility provides necessary medical treatments.
  • Confirm if therapy options, like physical, occupational, and speech, are available.

Understand Costs & Insurance

  • Ask what is covered by Medicare or insurance.
  • Get a clear estimate of out-of-pocket expenses.
  • Consider the location of the facility.

Emotional Support For Families

Moving your loved one to a skilled nursing facility can be overwhelming. It is important to remember:

  • Choosing professional medical care ensures faster recovery.
  • Many skilled nursing facilities encourage family involvement in care planning.
  • Family members can be involved through visits and communication with staff.

Conclusion

A skilled nursing facility is a specialized healthcare center that provides medical care 24 hours for patients who need assistance. Whether there is a need for short-term care or long-term care, skilled nursing facilities can make the recovery journey safer and more comfortable. If you are beginning your search for skilled nursing facilities near me, make some time to visit the facilities. At Star Capital, we understand the importance of making the right decision for loved ones. We are here to guide you with resources on assisted living, senior care, and healthcare support.

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