Are you exploring care options for a loved one who needs more support than assisted living can provide? A skilled nursing facility could be the answer. In this guide, we’ll break down the basics of skilled nursing, discuss what to look for in a community, and share how Rolling Green Village can provide compassionate, personalized care for your loved one.
What Are Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs)?
Unlike assisted living, which focuses on helping with activities of daily living (ADLs) and personal care, skilled nursing communities are equipped to handle more complex medical needs.
SNFs have a high level of medical oversight, with doctors, nurses, and therapists working together to provide comprehensive care. This ensures that residents receive the medical attention they need when they need it.
Who Benefits From SNFs?
SNFs can provide both short-term and long-term care, depending on your loved one’s needs.
- Short-Term Rehabilitation: If your loved one is recovering from a hospital stay, an SNF can provide the skilled nursing and therapy they need to regain their independence and return home.
- Long-Term Care: For seniors with chronic medical conditions or those who need more support than assisted living can provide, an SNF can offer a comfortable and safe home with 24-hour care.
Is a Skilled Nursing Community the Same as a Nursing Home?
Although “skilled nursing facility” and “nursing home” are often used interchangeably, there are nuanced distinctions between the two.
In general, SNFs offer both long-term and short-term senior care in a residential setting, while nursing homes offer long-term care for individuals who need 24/7 medical support and assistance with daily activities in a more hospital-like environment.
Types of Care and Services Offered in Skilled Nursing
When evaluating care options, it’s important to consider your loved one’s needs and preferences. Some individuals may primarily require skilled nursing services for medical conditions, while others may benefit from a combination of medical care and support with daily activities.
Here’s a closer look at the care available:
Medical Care
- Skilled Nursing Care: Registered nurses and licensed practical nurses provide around-the-clock care, including medication management, wound care, IV therapy, injections, tube feedings, catheter care, and monitoring of vital signs.
- Rehabilitative Therapies: Physical, occupational, and speech therapists work with individuals to help them regain strength, mobility, balance, coordination, communication skills, and independence in daily activities.
- Specialized Care: Many SNFs offer specialized care programs for specific conditions, such as Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, cardiac care, post-stroke recovery, and pulmonary rehabilitation.
Personal Care and Support
- Assistance With Activities of Daily Living (ADLs): Staff members assist residents with bathing, dressing, grooming, eating, toileting, and mobility.
- Medication Management: SNF staff members ensure residents receive the correct medications at the right times, monitor for side effects, and communicate with physicians as needed.
- Pain Management: SNFs have protocols to assess and manage pain effectively, using both medication and nonpharmacological approaches.
- Dietary and Nutritional Support: Registered dietitians develop personalized meal plans to meet each resident’s nutritional needs and dietary restrictions.
Understanding the Costs of Skilled Nursing Care
Paying for skilled nursing care can be a complex process, but understanding the options available can help you make informed decisions. Here’s an overview of the most common payment methods:
Medicare
Medicare Part A may cover a portion of skilled nursing care costs if your loved one has a qualifying hospital stay and meets specific criteria. However, it’s important to note that Medicare coverage is limited to 100 days and may not cover all costs.
Medicaid
If your loved one meets the eligibility requirements, Medicaid may cover the cost of skilled nursing care. Medicaid eligibility varies by state, so it’s important to check the specific requirements in your area.
Long-Term Care Insurance
If your loved one has a long-term care insurance policy, it may cover a portion of skilled nursing care costs. It’s crucial to review the policy details to understand the coverage limits and exclusions.
Private Pay
Many individuals pay for skilled nursing care out of pocket using personal savings, retirement funds or other assets.
Veterans Aid & Attendance Benefits
Veterans and their spouses may be eligible for benefits that cover a portion of skilled nursing and other long-term care costs.
It’s important to note that the cost of skilled nursing care can vary depending on several factors, including the location, the level of care needed, and the amenities offered. It’s essential to research your options and compare costs before making a decision.
Discover Compassionate Skilled Nursing at Rolling Green Village
When choosing a community that offers skilled nursing, quality of care and a vibrant lifestyle are top priorities. Rolling Green Village delivers both, offering:
- Expert, Compassionate Care: Our team of skilled nurses and therapists provides personalized care plans, ensuring your loved one’s unique needs are met.
- Award-Winning Excellence: We’re proud to be recognized by U.S. News & World Report as Best Continuing Care Retirement Community for 2024 and certified as a Vohra Wound Physicians Center of Excellence in Wound Management.
- Partnership With Prisma Health: Rolling Green Village is the top choice for Bon Secours/St. Francis and Prisma Health Systems, with hospitalist-trained physicians and nurse practitioners available in their rehab area five days a week and on-call.
- Engaging Lifestyle: From fitness classes and games to outings and special events, there’s always something to spark joy and connection.
At Rolling Green Village, we believe every individual deserves to live life to the fullest. Contact us online or call 864-558-9301 to schedule a personalized visit and experience our warm, welcoming community.
