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When a loved one needs skilled nursing care or help with daily living tasks, it's important to choose a living arrangement that is best-suited to his or her individual needs. Knowing about the facility's level of care and available services can empower you to make a good decision when considering your options.

What is a skilled nursing facility?

A skilled nursing facility differs from an assisted living center or nursing home, which is a long-term living arrangement. A skilled nursing facility usually provides short-term transitional medical care and services to recovering patients.

The following helpful facts can help you understand more about skilled nursing centers:

1. Private and semi-private rooms

Although skilled nursing facilities feature semi-private rooms, many facilities offer private rooms for patients as well. Floor plans and room options vary from center to center.

"If your loved one has a chronic illness or has been experiencing frequent falls," says Nick Williams, Chief Operations Officer of PruittHealth, "they will be safer and you can feel reassured that they will have 24-hour care and supervision in a skilled nursing setting."

2. Length of stay

Some people who live in a skilled nursing facility stay for just a few months on a short-term basis. This allows them to receive rehabilitative care after a stroke, heart attack, fall or other health event. Other individuals who stay in skilled nursing facilities have long-term care needs and stay for an extended period of time.

3. Paying for skilled nursing care

Caring for aging parents can be costly, but the financial aspects don't have to be intimidating. In fact, Medicare or Medicaid may often cover most of the expenses. For people who do not meet Medicare or Medicaid requirements, other options such as private pay or payment arrangements can be discussed.

4. The care team

Your loved one's care team will include physicians, nurses, nursing assistants, social workers, mental health professionals and other team members. You may be asked to attend regular treatment planning meetings so that you can stay updated regarding your loved one's health needs and care plan.

5. Activities for your loved one

Residents who stay in a skilled nursing facility enjoy activities designed to supplement their medical treatment plan. Most facilities have an activities director or resident director who coordinates the activities offered to patients. These activities may include physical therapy, games or crafts, music or garden therapy and pet therapy.

"When you visit a skilled nursing facility, ask what types of activities and programs are available," says Nick Williams, Chief Operations Officer of PruittHealth. "Knowing that your loved one will be active and interacting with others can help you decide if the facility is a good fit." 

What is an assisted living facility?

An assisted living center is intended for adults who are more independent and generally in good health. These facilities offer many community activities, such as yoga or exercise classes, movie nights, meals in the dining room and shopping trips. Residents have more independence in general, but may still need assistance getting dressed, taking their medication and handling other daily living tasks. 

1. Living arrangements

Assisted living centers offer different floor plans and levels of privacy. Some residents prefer to live alone, while others want to live with a roommate. The type of living arrangement chosen depends on a few factors, such as what your loved one can afford, the level of privacy they prefer and their overall health. Also, if family and friends are unable to visit often, a private room may not be the best choice.

2. Length of stay

Residents can live at an assisted living center as long as they are thriving and can be primarily independent. Individuals who only need minimal help or assistance with medications or who may need occasional access to nursing care may find assisted living a good solution. Some assisted living suites have kitchens while other suites do not, and assisted living facilities offer dining room services to ensure residents enjoy delicious, healthy meals.

"If your loved one needs additional medical care, isn't interacting with anyone at the assisted living center or experiences a decline in health, a facility that offers a higher level of care may be necessary," says Michael Dollander, Area Vice President for PruittHealth's Assisted Living Division, "Talk with the center's social worker and care team if you have concerns about your loved one in assisted living. These care providers can provide helpful feedback about how your loved one is adjusting to their new residence."

3. Cost of assisted living centers

The cost of assisted living will vary depending on the size, location, amenities and other factors of the facility. Some residents choose to share a room with another resident in order to reduce costs. Residents may typically choose their room size, floor plan and in some cases, their roommate. Most centers offer several group spaces and activity rooms for residents, so a large private room is not always necessary.

4. Assisted living center staff

The staff employed at an assisted living facility is dependent on the size of the center and the services offered. Most centers will have an administrator, admissions coordinator, activities director, nursing staff, aides and several volunteers. Some centers are smaller and may employ only a few people who perform multiple tasks. When searching for an assisted living residence, inquire about the credentials of the staff members.

5. Amenities and activities

The wealth of activities offered at assisted living centers make them a good option for residents who are mostly independent and in good health. Residents can attend educational classes, exercise at the gym, go on group outings, join book clubs, enjoy religious services and take part in many other organized activities. Assisted living center staff recognizes that residents have individual preferences, and therefore offer a variety of activities to ensure they have something for everyone.

Finding the most suitable home for your senior family member doesn't have to be challenging. With some forethought and research on your part, you can rest assured that your loved one is in good hands and living in a safe, healthy community.

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