Skip to content 
If you’re looking for the best care option for your elderly loved ones, there are different options to consider. Knowing the distinctions between nursing homes and skilled nursing facilities is crucial to make an informed decision. Skilled nursing facilities and nursing homes are two common types of senior care facilities that offer different types of care and services. This article will provide a clear and concise overview of the key differences between these two types of senior care facilities.
Skilled nursing facilities, also called SNFs, offer top-level medical care and rehabilitation services to patients who require more extensive care than a typical nursing home can provide. These facilities offer personalized care services such as medication management, wound care, and specialized treatment for chronic conditions such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease, in addition to medical care. Skilled nursing facilities have a dedicated team of highly-trained nursing staff, including registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs), who provide exceptional medical care and rehabilitation services to patients.
Nursing homes, on the other hand, provide long-term care for seniors who require assistance with daily living activities, such as bathing, dressing, and eating. While nursing homes have licensed nursing staff, they primarily focus on providing personal care rather than medical care. Residents of nursing homes may have access to some medical services, such as medication management and assistance with basic medical needs. Still, they generally do not require the same level of medical care as those in skilled nursing facilities.
Types of Care Offered
Skilled nursing facilities are designed to provide medical care and rehabilitation services for patients who require a higher level of care than can be provided in a nursing home. Skilled nursing facilities offer a range of medical services, including skilled nursing care, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and other specialized medical services. The nursing staff in a skilled nursing facility is highly qualified and includes registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs) who provide around-the-clock care and monitoring of patients.
In addition to medical care, skilled nursing facilities may also provide services such as medication management, wound care, and specialized care for patients with chronic conditions like Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease. Patients in a skilled nursing facility may require intensive medical care for a short time, such as after surgery, or they may require ongoing care for a chronic condition.
Residents of nursing homes may have access to some medical services, such as medication management and assistance with basic medical needs, but they generally do not require the same level of medical care as those in skilled nursing facilities. The nursing home staff assists with daily living activities and ensures that residents are comfortable and well-cared for.
Overall, the type of care offered in skilled nursing facilities is much more medically focused than in nursing homes, which are designed to provide long-term care and assistance with daily living activities. The specific care needs of your loved one will determine which type of facility is the best fit for them.
Qualifications of Staff Members
The qualifications of the nursing staff in skilled nursing facilities and nursing homes are different due to the nature of the care provided in each setting.
Skilled nursing facilities require highly qualified nursing staff to provide the specialized medical care and rehabilitation services needed by patients. Skilled nursing facilities are required by law to have a registered nurse (RN) on staff at all times, and many also employ licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and certified nursing assistants (CNAs). These staff members must hold state certifications and meet specific educational and training requirements to practice in skilled nursing facilities.
In addition to nursing staff, skilled nursing facilities may also employ therapists, dieticians, social workers, and other specialized medical professionals. These professionals work together to create a comprehensive care plan for each patient and ensure that their medical and rehabilitation needs are met.
Nursing homes also employ nursing staff, but their qualifications and training requirements are generally less extensive than those of skilled nursing facilities. Nursing homes may have RNs, LPNs, and CNAs, but they are not required to have an RN on staff at all times. Nursing home staff members must hold state certifications and meet training requirements. Still, their training focuses more on providing personal care and assistance with daily living activities than on providing medical care.
Overall, the nursing staff in skilled nursing facilities have more extensive qualifications and training than those in nursing homes due to the complex medical care and rehabilitation services provided in skilled nursing facilities. However, both types of facilities must meet state and federal regulations regarding staff qualifications and training to ensure the safety and well-being of their residents.
Cost of Care
One of the major concerns when it comes to choosing between a skilled nursing facility and a nursing home is the cost of care. It’s important to understand the differences in cost and what factors influence those costs.
Skilled nursing facilities generally provide more extensive medical care and rehabilitation services, which often results in higher costs than nursing homes. However, this additional level of care may be necessary for individuals who require more specialized medical attention.
On the other hand, nursing homes offer long-term care and daily living assistance, but typically at a lower cost than skilled nursing facilities. The cost of care in a nursing home can vary depending on the location and the level of care needed, with more advanced care requirements resulting in higher costs.
Other factors that can influence the cost of care include the amenities provided by the facility, the length of stay, and the type of insurance coverage. It’s important to consider all of these factors when deciding between a skilled nursing facility and a nursing home to ensure that the chosen facility is affordable and provides the necessary level of care.
Bottom Line
Skilled nursing facilities and nursing homes provide different types of care for seniors with varying needs. Skilled nursing facilities offer medical care and rehabilitation services for individuals who require more specialized attention. In contrast, nursing homes provide lower costs for long-term care and daily living assistance.
When choosing between these types of senior care options, it’s essential to consider factors such as the level of care needed, location, cost, and insurance coverage. Additionally, it’s crucial to research and compare different facilities to ensure that they meet the individual’s specific needs and preferences.
Ultimately, the decision between a skilled nursing facility like Winchester Terrace and a nursing home like Morrow Manor should be based on the individual’s unique situation and requirements. By considering all of these factors and working with medical professionals and caregivers, families can make the best decision to provide their loved ones with the care and support they need.
