Finding the right level of care for a loved one or yourself as you age can be a challenge. Elder Care Alliance loves to celebrate seniors and recognizes the desire to live independently as long as possible. You can achieve the right balance of independence and living assistance by living in a skilled nursing facility. Since not all of these facilities are created equal or offer the same types of services, it’s important to learn about some of their differences. That way, you can choose the right one for your situation and needs.
What Does Skilled Nursing Provide?
As mentioned, different skilled nursing facilities provide various levels of care in an independent living setting. Some facilities offer some or all of the following services:
- Contracted hospice services
- 24/7 skilled nursing services
- On-site physicians
- Wound care management
- Cardiopulmonary care
- Secured Alzheimer’s skilled nursing
- Mobile lab and x-ray services
You may find that more than traditional assisted living services are needed for you or your loved one. In such cases, skilled nursing may fill the gaps and provide deeper care. Skilled nursing emphasizes whole-body wellness, which means services are provided to help celebrate seniors and provide a higher quality of life.
Additional Skilled Nursing Services
In addition to basic daily living services, some skilled nursing facilities may also offer the following:
- Physical therapy
- Speech therapy
- Wound care
- IV therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Chronic disease management
Sometimes, an individual will temporarily require short-term skilled nursing care. An example of when this type of care might be warranted is immediately after an injury or surgery. In other cases, individuals may need ongoing skilled nursing care to help them live their daily lives with minimal pain. Long-term skilled nursing care is often available in full-service senior living communities.
When searching for a skilled nursing facility that knows how to celebrate seniors and help them live their fullest lives, look for facilities that emphasize personalized care. No two individuals are exactly alike, so it’s important not to put your loved one in a facility that provides cookie-cutter skilled nursing services. Ensure the skilled nursing staff is also highly trained and knows how to help residents maintain a sense of self-respect and independence.
When to Consider Skilled Nursing Services
It can take time to determine what type of care your loved one needs as they age. Some older adults may only require basic living assistance, while others may need more specialized care. Standard assisted living services may be sufficient if your loved one is independent but could use help with everyday tasks like medication management and dressing.
However, you may want to consider skilled nursing services for your loved one if they’re recovering from an injury, need assistance with daily activities, or require 24/7 nursing care. If your loved one has a chronic illness that requires daily medications and consistent monitoring, skilled nursing services will help provide that care and give you peace of mind that your loved one is receiving proper care.
Elder Care Alliance offered skilled nursing at our Mercy Retirement & Care Center community.
