What is a Nursing Home and What Types are Available?
When we get older, we tend to need medical attention. Sometimes, the elderly require care that is not quite hospital level, yet cannot be given at home, either. That is the definition of a nursing home and in these cases, that may be the answer.
There are basically two different types of nursing homes. There are those that look and feel like a hospital, and then there are those that have a more "home-like" feel. Here, we will look at each one and define the major differences.
Hospital type nursing homes
Just like a hospital, this type of nursing home has staff on hand 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. That staff is usually made up of trained medical staff, nurses and doctors. All are trained to handle whatever may come up. Since nursing homes do offer medication services, they may also have a pharmacist on hand.
Hospital type nursing homes will have nurses stations on each floor. Patients will have a call light if they need anything and meals are served in the rooms. If the patient needs assistance eating, that is provided as well. Nursing homes provide 100% care in areas. Anything the patient needs is supplied readily.
As a full service medical facility, the nursing home will also administer medications, offer all types of therapy and take patients for walks and exercise when appropriate.
Home-like nursing homes
There are nursing homes that are intended to feel more "homey". The rooms are dimly lit and decorated in contemporary styles. They look more like a bedroom than a hospital room. In addition, activities may be scheduled and a director may be on staff as well.
The feel is more of a neighborhood type of environment. This gives the client a feeling of independence and individuality. The client has more freedom to move around here and a daily regimen or schedule is not always there. It is more of a free to come and go as you wish setting. The kitchen may be open to residents as well for those that are able to prepare their own meals.
Both types of nursing home provide the same kind of care. Major medical care is given and different types of therapy are administered as well. Medications are monitored and assistance may be given to the patient to assure they get the proper meds. Some nursing homes are specially set up to care for patients with massive memory or recognition issues like Alzheimers or dementia.
Private funding is the normal way to pay for nursing home care. However, Medicare, Medicaid and insurance can be utilized to pay for this kind of care facility. Many states offer programs that can assist or even fully provide the services your loved one requires. To ensure you get the help you need, please check your local and state laws and statutes.
Use a nursing home to be sure your loved one receives the proper care, takes their medicines and is cared for by professionals.
