Types of Facilities

Nursing facilities provide different levels of care. The individual's needs will dictate the type of facility you select.

Nursing Care Facilities provide 24-hour nursing service for convalescent patients. Registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, and nurse aides provide services prescribed by the patient's physician. Emphasis is on medical nursing care with restorative, physical, occupational, and other therapies also provided. NCFs are eligible to participate in both Medicare and Medicaid.

Assisted Living Residences . ALRs provide sheltered living to individuals capable of "functional independence." The residential care facility stresses the social needs of the "resident" rather than the medical needs of the "patient." Residents are provided dietary and housekeeping services, medical monitoring, and social, recreational and spiritual opportunities. These relieve the "functionally independent" person of the anxieties of old age or disability and allow enjoyment of a full productive life.

In addition, some nursing facilities offer specialized services and alternative care services. These services include but are not limited to:

Adult Day Care Facilities which provide nursing and nutritional services and medical monitoring in a clean and comfortable non-residential environment. Adult day care gives seniors an opportunity to make their own decisions, while extending the long-term care facility's participation in the community.

Alzheimer's Disease Care Centers provide both skilled and intermediate levels of care to those individuals with Alzheimer's Disease. Specialized nursing care utilizing a team approach as well as secured areas, both inside and outside, allow for maximum freedom to those afflicted with this disease.

Hospice Services are provided by some nursing facilities. These services include 24-hour nursing care to those diagnosed with a terminal illness. The primary concern of the hospice is to deal with pain control and to maintain dignity of life. Counseling is available to the patient and family members.

Respite Care involves short term (usually two weeks) care in a nursing facility for individuals who are usually cared for at home. This service allows caregivers to take vacations or tend to business, knowing the needs of the family members are being met by trained staff.