Skilled Nursing Facility vs Nursing Home

A Skilled Nursing Facility vs. A Nursing Home: What’s the Difference?

Are you struggling with deciding between a skilled nursing facility vs nursing home for your elderly loved one?

There comes a time when your loved one might not be able to age in place and instead, need the help of a medical professional to care for them on a full-time basis. When this time comes, you will likely need to choose between a skilled nursing facility and a nursing home. 

Making the best decision can be difficult if you are not sure what type of care your loved one needs. If you are wondering about the difference between a skilled nursing facility and a nursing home, this short and simple guide is for you. 

What Is a Skilled Nursing Facility?

Before you can make a decision, you need to know the skilled nursing facility definition. 

In short, this type of facility offers a high level of medical assistance to those who need short or long-term care. In skilled nursing care facilities, you will find registered nurses, occupational therapists, speech therapists, physical therapists, and more. 

If your loved one needs rehab from an injury or illness, they might need a skilled nursing facility.  

What Is a Nursing Home?

To make a decision, you also need to know what a nursing home is. 

In a nursing home, your loved one will have assistance with daily activities, such as bathing, eating, taking medications, and more. They will also have the opportunity to participate in exercise classes, scenic tours, arts and crafts, and other hobbies. 

Nursing home staff can also give basic medical care to patients, usually under the supervision of a registered nurse. 

What Are the Differences?

There are several differences between skilled nursing care and a nursing home. 

Typically, a skilled nursing facility is for those with serious medical needs while a nursing home is for those who need daily living assistance. While Medicare insurance will usually cover a skilled nursing facility, it might not do the same for a nursing home. A stay at a nursing home is typically long-term while a skilled nursing facility can be short or long-term. 

What Is the Best Option?

Choosing the best option for your loved one depends on the medical situation they are in. One of the best ways to decide is to talk to your loved one’s doctor and medical team. You can learn more about choosing a skilled nursing facility here.

Skilled Nursing Facility vs Nursing Home: These Are the Differences

If you are trying to decide between a skilled nursing facility vs nursing home, this guide is for you. 

By reading this guide, you will learn what a skilled nursing facility is and what a nursing home is. You will also learn the main differences between the two types of facilities. Ultimately, you will learn how to determine the best option for you and your loved one.

Read this guide to determine the best way to meet your elderly loved one’s needs.  

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