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Why Are Nursing Homes Important?
Date Updated: July 26, 2024
Written by:
Rachel Lustbader is a writer and editor with a background in healthcare and technology. Her work has been published on websites including HealthCare.com, BiteSizeBio.com, BetterHelp.com, Caring.com, and PayingforSeniorCare.com. She studied health science and public health at Boston University.
Both of Rachel’s grandmothers had very positive experiences in senior living communities, and Rachel saw firsthand the impact that kind, committed caregivers and community managers can have on seniors’ and their family members’ lives. With her work at Caring, Rachel hopes to help other families find communities, caregivers, and at-home products that benefit elderly loved ones and make life less stressful for family caregivers
Who Are Nursing Homes For?
If you’re unsure whether you or someone else needs nursing home care, look for several indicators, such as frequent falls. Seniors who fall regularly are at risk of injury and may not be able to safely continue living in their homes. Likewise, seniors who struggle with feeding themselves, using the bathroom unassisted or transferring to and from bed independently are ideal candidates for nursing home placement.
Nursing homes can be the best option for seniors with complex or progressive health conditions, such as diabetes, cancer, Alzheimer’s and other types of cognitive diseases. When an individual requires around-the-clock medical attention and can no longer manage their condition by themselves or with help of a family caregiver, it may be a good time to consider the move to nursing home care.
Assisted Living Versus Nursing Homes
Assisted living provides basic medical services, medication monitoring and 24-hour access to emergency care and therapies, including physical, speech and occupational therapy. In assisted living, caregivers may be trained in first aid and basic health care procedures but are usually unable to provide advanced medical services and skilled nursing.
Nursing homes typically have registered nurses, certified nurse assistants, therapists and other types of health care professionals on-site 24/7. Nursing home residents receive preventative and palliative care, prescription medication administration and specialized therapies. Staff is equipped to handle medical equipment, such as IV drips, ventilators and catheters. These facilities also include safety features, such as alarmed doorways and grab bars to help prevent falls.