Nursing Homes Information
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 nursing home facilities.
Nursing Home Costs
The average cost of care for nursing home care ranges between
$4,000 and $8,000 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.
Long-term care insurance is another source of financing to
defray the cost of nursing home care.