For seniors no longer able to be self-sufficient in their own homes, a nursing home may be the most appropriate type of residence. This may be due to physical illness or disabilities, or mental deterioration like dementia.
Of people who are 65 years of age and older, approximately 14 percent will eventually be in need of the type of full-time, multi-faceted care offered by a nursing home. These care centers may stand alone or they may be part of a community that includes independent living and assistant living arrangements.
Nursing homes may also be known as convalescent centers, extended care centers and health care centers. They're also called nursing centers, rehabilitation centers or skilled nursing facilities.
Extended care centers provide a variety of services to meet seniors' needs. Medical, social and personal care are available.
A senior who has been having difficulty taking care of his or her personal grooming, or taking care of his or her homes, may find relief in the services that are provided by a nursing home. For those who need help getting dressed or getting breakfast, assistance is available.
If a senior is having a hard time managing the stairs or navigating their hallways, if he or she is in danger of falling while getting up from a chair or out of the shower or bath tub, a nursing home is a haven set up to protect him or her from harm.
Convalescent centers provide adjustable beds and bedrails, as well as shower chairs and tub bars. They offer hospital beds, wheelchairs and walkers.
And if a senior's memory has become shaky to the point that he or she leaves pots forgotten on the stove, or he or she runs the risk of getting lost in the neighborhood, it may well be time to seriously consider the safety offered by a nursing home.
If a senior has health conditions that need careful supervision the nursing home is equipped for this with registered or licensed vocational nurses present 24 hours a day.
For seniors looking to do some socializing, activities and recreation are organized for them and are easily accessible.
Many nursing homes also offer respite care which is short term care to give the regular caregivers a break.
When researching a convalescent center, check with resources like the Better Business Bureau. Don't hesitate when speaking with administrators and staff to ask about background checks of nursing home employees.
Nursing homes are covered by Medicare (in short term situations), Medicaid, private payment and long term care insurance.
Resources:
Elderly Care For Your Loved Ones
http://www.elderlycare.net
Nursing Home Diaries
http://www.nursinghomediaries.com/howmany.php
Home Care Services for Seniors vs. Nursing Homes
http://www.agenotes.com/elder-care/home-care-services-seniors-nursing-homes-1089.php
Understanding Care Categories
http://www.myguideforseniors.com/senior-education/understanding-senior-care-levels.asp#IndependentLiving
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