Compared to skilled nursing facilities, skilled nursing homes are mainly for long-term stays where people receive care by skilled nurses or medical staff 24 hours a day to seniors that are no longer capable of living in their homes and might need constant assistance on their day-to-day routine.
Table of Contents (sections)
- Benefits of Skilled Nursing Homes
- Eligibility Requirements to Qualify for Skilled Nursing Homes
- What Is a Skilled Nursing Home
- What to Look for in Skilled Nursing Homes
- Understanding Waiting Lists for Senior Apartments
- Paying for Skilled Nursing Homes
- Where to Find Skilled Nursing Homes (only on Senioridy)
Benefits of Skilled Nursing Homes
Skilled nursing homes offer a range of benefits for people needing medical care and rehabilitation after an illness, surgery, or injury. Skilled nursing facilities offer trained medical professionals who can identify potential health issues early on. This can be crucial, as some conditions might be missed by untrained caregivers. For instance, they may not recognize the subtle signs of an infection or lack the knowledge to handle a heart attack or stroke in its initial stages.
Beyond medical needs, seniors with declining health may require frequent assistance with daily activities. This could include diaper changes several times a day, help with eating (spoon-feeding or administering liquid food through a feeding tube), and other ongoing care. The demands of such care can be relentless, potentially requiring a family member to dedicate themselves entirely to the senior's needs around the clock.
Eligibility Requirements to Qualify for Skilled Nursing Homes
Qualifying for a skilled nursing home involves needing a specific type of care, not just any general assistance with daily living. You’ll need to have a documented medical condition requiring skilled nursing care such as ongoing medical assessment and treatment for complex conditions, medication management that's too complex for home care, or chronic disease management requiring close monitoring by medical professionals. Knowing your loved one receives proper care and has access to medical professionals around the clock provides peace of mind for families during a challenging time.
What is a Skilled Nursing Home
Skilled nursing homes provide long-term care for seniors who can no longer live independently due to chronic health conditions or needing assistance with daily activities. Residents receive 24/7 care from skilled nurses and medical professionals to ensure their well-being.
What to Look for in Skilled Nursing Homes
Choosing a skilled nursing facility (SNF) for yourself or a loved one is a critical decision. Here are some key factors to consider:
Care and Services:
- Medical Expertise: Look for a facility with licensed nurses and therapists who specialize in conditions similar to the one you or your loved one has.
- Quality of Care: Research the facility's inspection reports and resident satisfaction ratings.
- Rehabilitation Services: Ensure the SNF offers the specific therapy services needed, such as physical, occupational, or speech therapy.
- Ability to Meet Needs: Consider if the facility can accommodate any special needs, like dietary restrictions or assistance with daily living activities.
Understanding Waiting Lists for Skilled Nursing
Skilled nursing homes frequently have waiting lists due to high demand and limited resources. Nursing homes are regulated by the government and have a set number of beds available. This ensures proper staffing ratios and quality care for residents. Many nursing homes have a limited number of beds covered by Medicaid, the government health insurance program for low-income individuals. This can lead to longer wait times for Medicaid recipients, as private-pay residents may fill available beds first.
Paying for Skilled Nursing Homes
The cost of a skilled nursing home varies significantly depending on location and the specific facility. While national averages can provide a general idea, they may not reflect the cost in your area. On average, a semi-private room in a skilled nursing home costs around $7,756 per month, while a private room can reach $8,821 per month. These are just averages, and the actual cost can be higher or lower. Several factors can impact the cost of an SNF stay. This includes the level of care needed, amenities offered, and the location of the facility.
Where to Find Skilled Nursing Homes (only on Senioridy)
Senioridy will be your favorite tool when it comes to finding the nearest senior housing options with our map-based filters, compare your preferred skilled nursing homes and share it with your family members. Reach each home directly with our up-to-date directory to find out the best fit for you.
