What is a Nursing Home?
Today in the United States there are over 16,000 nursing homes.
Nursing homes, also known as skilled nursing facilities, are for seniors who require constant medical care
and need significant assistance with the activities of daily living.
The goal of care in a nursing home is to help individuals meet their daily physical, medical, social,
and psychological needs. Nursing homes are generally stand alone facilities,
but some are operated within a hospital or an assisted living community.
Residents of nursing homes generally have high care needs and complex medical conditions that require routine skilled nursing services.
Due to the constant care needs of its residents, nursing homes are required by federal law to have a licensed nurse on duty 24 hours
a day. Residents typically share a room and are served meals in a central dining area. Residents should have the opportunity to
be involved in activities that provide mental, physical, and social stimulation. Be sure to ask about activities offered
when you tour the facility.
The average cost of care for nursing home care ranges between $4000 and $8000 per month.
Cost is determined by the level of care needed, the setting where the care is provided, and the geographic location.
Due to the high cost of care, many residents use supplemental funding from the government in the form of Medicare and/or Medicaid.
To find out more about the nursing home options in your area, complete the form below.
