What is nursing and rehabilitative care?
Nursing Care is probably the oldest, and most recognized, of all forms of senior care. Generally speaking, Nursing Care facilities are living communities for seniors who require constant, or 24-hour supervisory nursing care. The most obvious feature of a Nursing Care community is the around-the-clock presence and influence of nurses: registered nurses, licensed practical nurses and certified nursing assistants.In addition to expert care, most nursing facilities offer many of the same services and day-to-day amenities as Assisted Living Communities. Within the context of the individual senior's specific care needs, residents participate in planned activities and social events. Facilities usually include dining rooms and social areas.
Who receives nursing care?*
About 1.56 million seniors live in nursing facilities today in the U.S. (Approximately 4.5% of the age 65+ population)Age breakout:
- 1.1% of seniors between the ages of 65 and 74 live in a nursing facility
- 4.7% of seniors between the ages of 75 to 84 live in a nursing facility
- 18.2% of seniors ages 85 and up live in a nursing facility
What to Expect
Nursing care residences are designed for people who need medical/rehabilitative and restorative care; the living spaces include wide halls, handrails and nurse stations. Residents live in single or shared rooms, but they share community rooms for planned daily activities, socials and dining. Meals are prepared based on individual dietary needs.The type and amount of care a person receives is dependent on what is needed to maintain his or her 'normal' lifestyle:
Basic Care refers to the basic activities of daily living (eating, bathing and grooming, toilet help, dressing, transport, etc.) in which a resident may require help or supervision.
Skilled Care is nursing care and related services for those who need medical or nursing care or rehabilitative services for the rehabilitation of injured, disabled or sick persons.
Sub-Acute Care refers to intensive, on-going care for an illness, physical condition or impairment. It is administered by a professional and requires frequent assessment.
Some communities may also offer individual or family counseling, physical or respiration therapies, post-hospital and surgical care, restorative care and coordination of care services.
