24-hour care and rehabilitation from licensed nurses and therapists for people with complex medical needs or recovering after a hospital stay.
A skilled nursing facility provides around-the-clock medical care from licensed nurses, along with physical, occupational and speech therapy. Some people stay for a short time to rebuild strength after surgery, a fall or a hospital stay, while others live there long term because they need ongoing nursing care. Care is directed by physicians and delivered by a team that may include nurses, therapists, dietitians and social workers.
Skilled nursing can be short-term rehab or long-term care, so it helps to know which you need before comparing facilities.
The right facility depends on why care is needed and how long it will last.
A stay of days to weeks focused on therapy and recovery after surgery, illness or injury, with a goal of returning home.
Ongoing nursing care for people with chronic or complex conditions who need more support than other settings can safely provide.
Ask about therapy hours and qualifications, and how progress is measured and shared with you.
Review inspection reports and quality ratings, and ask how the facility handles infections, falls and emergencies.
Meet nursing leadership and ask about staffing levels, consistency of caregivers and communication with families.
Understand what insurance covers, what you may owe and how coverage differs between short-term and long-term stays.
Medicare may cover a limited stay in a skilled nursing facility after a qualifying hospital stay when skilled care or rehabilitation is needed, with costs and time limits that apply. Long-term nursing home care is generally not covered by Medicare. Medicaid, including ALTCS in Arizona, may help eligible people with long-term care costs, and some families pay privately or use long-term care insurance.
Helpful answers for families facing a hospital discharge or a long-term care decision.
Skilled nursing provides 24-hour medical care from licensed nurses and therapists. Assisted living focuses on daily living support and independence in a residential setting. Learn more about assisted living.
Medicare may cover a limited stay after a qualifying hospital stay when skilled care is needed, but it does not generally cover long-term custodial care. An advisor can help you check what applies.
It varies widely, from days to several weeks, depending on the condition, progress and goals set with the care team.
Often. Home health brings nurses and therapists to the home when someone can safely recover there. Learn more about home health care.
Visit more than once, including at mealtimes, check inspection records and quality ratings, and talk with staff and residents. An advisor can help narrow the options.
Share a few details and a Senior Care Navigator advisor will reach out to talk through your situation. It’s private and completely no-pressure.
