Hear from the experts: 4 signs it’s time for skilled nursing.

This blog is for general information only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with a physician before making decisions about care.

When a loved one is discharged from the hospital, or their care needs have exceeded what can safely be provided at home or in an assisted living residence, it may be time for skilled nursing. But, with so many options available for senior care, how do you know when skilled nursing is the right choice?

Read on to learn more about the signs that it’s time for skilled nursing, plus learn about the biggest myth about skilled nursing care.

Four Signs It’s Time for Skilled Nursing Care

1. Your loved one has extensive, ongoing medical needs.

One of the clearest signs that skilled nursing may be the best option are extensive medical needs. When a senior’s medical needs exceed what can safely be offered at home or in assisted living, skilled nursing is usually the best choice.

Following are some examples of what is meant by “extensive medical needs.”

• 24/7 medical supervision: When a senior requires around-the-clock medical monitoring, the staff in a skilled nursing center are available to ensure those needs are met. Medical monitoring might mean observation of vital signs and other health indicators, or frequent testing, or checking medical equipment.
• Frequent or complex treatments: Skilled nursing centers can provide medical services like wound care, intravenous medications, and other treatments that require administration by a nurse.
• Use of a feeding tube or ventilator: use of these requires maintenance and oversight by a medical professional.

What’s the difference between skilled nursing and assisted living? Find answers to frequently asked questions about skilled nursing here.

2. They’ve been discharged from the hospital for rehabilitation.

In fact, one of the biggest myths about skilled nursing is that it’s always for the long term. In fact, short-term stays, especially for rehab, are common and beneficial.

What if a senior’s health changes after moving to senior living? Learn how seniors use the continuum of care at Sunnyside Manor to stay well.

Most rehabilitation centers are part of a skilled nursing center. This is because care needs during rehabilitation often overlap with the types of care offered in a skilled nursing center.

Rehabilitation stays are short-term, and generally last from 4-8 weeks. After a rehabilitation stay, seniors return to their home – whether that’s the family home or an assisted living apartment.

You can learn more about how to choose a short term rehabilitation center here.

3. They are not able to move from bed.

Many seniors may need assistance with transferring, that is, getting in and out of a bed or chair. However, after assistance with transferring, they are able to move freely with a cane, walker, or wheelchair.

When a senior is not able to leave their bed and move without assistance, skilled nursing is the option that will best serve their needs. Skilled nursing provides for the medical needs that can arise from diminished movement, as well as social and entertainment programs tailored to those with significantly limited mobility.

4. They require significant assistance at mealtimes.

The dining and nutritional options in a skilled nursing setting can best serve those who cannot eat without significant assistance. For example, they may not be physically able to lift adaptive utensils, or pick up “finger foods.”

Or, in the case of progressive conditions (such as Parkinson’s Disease, ALS, and the most advanced stages of Alzheimer’s), they may no longer be able to swallow. In these cases, a skilled nursing center will be the most supportive environment for ensuring good nutrition.

Learn more: when it’s time for skilled nursing (and when it’s not).

Skilled nursing care is primarily for seniors who have significant medical needs or are undergoing rehabilitation after an illness, injury, or surgery.

For seniors who would benefit from extra help with daily personal tasks (like getting ready in the morning and managing medications), assisted living will be the best choice to support their independence. And, for many seniors and their families, knowing that skilled nursing care is available right on the same campus brings peace of mind.

Each senior’s needs are unique and can vary over time. Always check in with your loved one’s physician when making care decisions.

When you have questions about skilled nursing and assisted living, we are here to help.

You can learn more about skilled nursing  – including the 8 things to look for when touring a skilled nursing and rehabilitation center – by browsing helpful articles on our blog. Or, call 888-696-2052 to speak with one of our experts, or contact us by email here.

Learn More About Why Families Rely On Sunnyside Manor

When you have questions about senior living, we are here to help. Sunnyside Manor offers assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing and rehabilitation. Learn more about Sunnyside Manor’s resources for caregivers. Whether you’re looking for short-term support or a longer-term plan, begin with our “Getting Started” guide. Please call us at 888-696-2052 to speak with a senior living expert.

Sunnyside Manor, located in Wall NJ, is the area’s premier family-owned senior living community. The community features three distinctive neighborhoods: Independence ‘Plus’ Assisted Living, Recollections Memory Care, and Long Term Care & Sub-acute Rehabilitation. Respite stays and palliative care are available in all neighborhoods.