Skilled Nursing Facility vs Nursing Home: What Is The Difference?
It’s never easy to make the decision to send a loved one to a nursing home or skilled nursing facility. Depending on their medical conditions, it can be a difficult and emotionally taxing decision. You want to be certain of the quality of care they’re receiving, that their needs are being met and they’re comfortable and happy. But with so many options available, how can you be sure you’re making the right choice?
In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at skilled nursing facilities and nursing homes. We’ll explore what each type of facility offers, the benefits of skilled nursing care, and the key differences between the two. By the end of this post, you should have a better understanding of which type of care is right for your loved one.
What Is a Skilled Nursing Facility?
A skilled nursing facility, also known as a skilled nursing unit or SNFs, is a type of long-term in-patient care that provides comprehensive medical and nursing care for people who are unable to manage their own health care needs at home. These facilities tend to be the go-to choice for those who require further rehabilitation for certain conditions such as major accidents, surgeries, or severe illnesses.
With 24/7 care and supervision, skilled nursing facilities can offer a higher level of care than what is possible at home. The skilled nursing staff can provide around-the-clock care and assistance with activities of daily living, as well as more complex medical needs. Plus, with advanced medical equipment and technology, skilled nursing facilities can offer a wide range of therapies and treatments that can help patients manage their illnesses or injuries.
What Is a Nursing Home?
A nursing home is a type of long-term care that provides continuous skilled nursing care and other supportive services for people who are unable to live independently because of a chronic illness, disability, or mobility issues. Overall, a nursing home is likened to a residential home for the elderly or people with disabilities.
As skilled nursing facilities, nursing homes also offer 24/hour care and supervision. However, nursing homes tend to focus more on custodial care, which includes help with activities of daily living such as eating, bathing, and using the restroom. While skilled nursing facilities offer a higher level of medical care, nursing homes provide more social and recreational activities to help residents stay active and engaged.
What Is Skilled Nursing?
Skilled nursing is a type of medical care that is provided by licensed health professionals such as registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, and certified nurse assistants. Skilled nursing care can be provided in a variety of settings including hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, nursing homes, and patient’s homes.
What Are Examples of Skilled Nursing Care?
Nursing care can vary depending on the needs of the patient. However, some examples of skilled nursing care include:
- Wound care
- IV therapy
- Pain management
- Feeding tube care
- Cardiac care
- Pulmonary care
- Diabetes management
What Are the Benefits of a Skilled Nursing Facility?
There are many benefits to choosing a skilled nursing facility for your loved one’s long-term care needs. Some of these benefits include:
24/hour Access to Skilled Nursing Care
If your loved one needs around-the-clock skilled nursing care, a skilled nursing facility is the best option. Skilled nursing facilities have a staff of licensed nurses and other health professionals who are available 24 hours a day to provide care. This will prove very valuable if your loved one is in an unstable condition.
A Wide Range of Services
Skilled nursing facilities offer a wide range of services, including medical and nursing care, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and social services. This comprehensive approach to care can help your loved ones reach their highest level of function and independence.
A Safe and Secure Environment
Skilled nursing facilities are designed to meet the unique needs of people who require long-term care. They offer a safe and secure environment with 24/hour supervision by trained staff. Emotional, social, and physical needs are all taken into consideration when designing the care plans offered at skilled nursing facilities.
How Is a Skilled Nursing Facility Different From a Nursing Home?
There are several key differences between skilled nursing facilities and nursing homes. These differences include:
Patients’ Needs
Skilled nursing facilities provide comprehensive medical and nursing care for people who are unable to manage their own health care needs at home. Nursing homes provide continuous skilled nursing care and other supportive services for people who are unable to live independently because of disability or mobility issues.
Level of Facilities and Services
Skilled nursing facilities offer a wide range of services, including cardiac care, post-stroke rehabilitation, physical therapy, and so on. Nursing homes offer a more limited range of services that are focused on custodial care and social activities. If your loved one has an acute condition that requires comprehensive care and rehabilitation, then a skilled nursing facility is the better option.
What Are the Cost Differences Between a Skilled Nursing Facility and Nursing Homes?
The cost of skilled nursing facilities is typically higher than the cost of nursing homes. Skilled nursing facilities offer a wide range of services and 24/hour access to skilled nursing care, which can add to the overall cost.
However, skilled nursing facilities may also offer discounts for private pay patients or those who have long-term care insurance. When comparing costs, be sure to ask about all fees and charges associated with each type of facility.
Need A Skilled Nursing Facility in California?
Sending your loved one to a skilled nursing facility can be a difficult decision. However, it is important to choose the right type of facility for your loved one’s needs. Skilled nursing facilities offer a wide range of services and around-the-clock skilled nursing care and are more suited for people who require comprehensive care.
If you are looking for a skilled nursing facility in Downey, California, look no further than Downey Community Health Center. Our skilled nursing facility offers a wide range of services, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, wound care and so much more. We also have a staff of registered doctors and nurses who are available 24 hours a day to provide the care your loved one needs.
Contact us today to see how we can help you and your loved one.
