Skilled nursing facilities are designed to offer a high level of care for individuals who are no longer able to remain independent at home. This is different than an assisted living facility, where the care is simply supportive in nature. Residents in an assisted living facility don't need help with basic care needs such as dressing or feeding. In a skilled nursing care facility, residents have more needs that can't be met either in the home or in an assisted living residence. For people who are dependent on others for toileting, walking, eating, and other basic needs, a skilled nursing facility is ready to provide the care they need and keep them safe.

Therapy Services in a Skilled Nursing Facility

If you have a loved one who needs rehabilitation services, a skilled nursing facility is a great choice. From physical therapy to speech therapy and more, when a loved one goes to a skilled nursing facility for rehabilitation after an injury or stroke, they get all the services they need right within the facility. While you may want to bring your family member home instead, it is often easier for your loved one to get the skilled nursing care they need in order to recover faster when they're in a skilled nursing facility.

Rehabilitation vs. Long Term Care

A skilled nursing facility can be used for residents that need rehabilitation with a goal of returning home and for those who need long term custodial care. For those who are in a skilled nursing facility for rehabilitation, a wide range of services are provided. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy are provided as needed in order to prepare the person to return home. For people who are receiving long term custodial care, many of these services are not necessary. The level of care received is determined by the reason the person is in the skilled nursing facility.

Skilled nursing plays an integral role in a patient's recovery after a serious illness or injury by helping the individual recover quickly so that they can return home in good health. While receiving services for rehabilitation, it is often easier to simply stay in a skilled nursing facility instead of trying to receive these services on an outpatient basis. If the person is not able to overcome their injuries, they can remain at a skilled nursing home for custodial care. This level of care is designed for people who are more dependent on others and need the services that a skilled nursing home can provide to keep them safe.

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