Nursing Home 101

More Than Just a Place to Live

A nursing home provides 24-hour skilled nursing care for people who can't live independently anymore. Think of it as a combination of a residence and a medical facility—residents get help with daily activities plus nursing care when they need it.

Who Lives in Nursing Homes?

Most residents are elderly and need help with daily tasks like bathing, dressing, eating, or taking medications. Some are recovering from surgery or illness. Others have conditions like dementia, stroke, or chronic illnesses that require constant medical attention.

Different from Assisted Living

Assisted living is for people who need some help but don't need constant medical care. Nursing homes provide skilled nursing—meaning licensed nurses are on staff 24/7 to give medications, wound care, and other medical services.

Long-Term Care

For people who need ongoing nursing care indefinitely. This is what most people think of when they hear "nursing home." Medicare doesn't cover this—it's paid through Medicaid, private pay, or long-term care insurance.

Short-Term Rehabilitation

After a hospital stay (surgery, stroke, heart attack, etc.), you might go to a nursing home for physical therapy and recovery. This is temporary—usually a few weeks. Medicare covers this for up to 100 days if you meet their criteria.

Memory Care

Specialized care for people with Alzheimer's or dementia. These units are secure (so residents don't wander) and staff are trained in dementia care techniques.

Hospice Care

End-of-life care for people with terminal illnesses. Hospice can be provided in nursing homes—either by the facility's staff or by bringing in an outside hospice agency.

Your Own Room

Most facilities offer private or semi-private rooms (shared with one roommate). You can bring personal items—photos, small furniture, favorite blankets—to make it feel like home.

Meals and Activities

Three meals a day in a dining room, plus snacks. Most facilities offer activities—bingo, movies, crafts, music, exercise classes, religious services. You're not required to participate, but they're there if you want them.

Medical Care

Nurses check on you regularly, give medications, monitor health conditions, and coordinate with your doctor. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy are available if needed.

Help with Daily Tasks

Certified nursing assistants (CNAs) help with bathing, dressing, toileting, eating, and getting around. How much help you get depends on your care plan.

Safety at Home is a Concern

Frequent falls, forgetting to take medications, leaving the stove on, getting lost wandering—these are signs living at home might not be safe anymore.

Family Caregivers are Overwhelmed

If you or your family are exhausted, burned out, or can't provide the level of care needed, it's time to get help. Caregiver burnout is real—and dangerous.

Medical Needs are Increasing

If you need wound care, IV medications, tube feedings, catheter care, or other skilled nursing services, a nursing home might be necessary.

After a Hospital Stay

If you can't go straight home after a hospital discharge because you need therapy or medical monitoring, short-term rehab in a nursing home is common.

It's Expensive

Nursing homes cost $8,000-$12,000+ per month on average (varies by location). Medicare only covers short-term rehab stays. Long-term care is paid by Medicaid (if you qualify), long-term care insurance, or out-of-pocket.

Quality Varies

Not all nursing homes are created equal. Check Medicare's Care Compare website for star ratings and inspection reports. Visit multiple facilities before choosing. Trust your gut—if a place feels off, keep looking.

You Have Rights

Federal law guarantees nursing home residents specific rights—freedom from abuse, the right to visitors, the right to make decisions about your care, and more. Every facility must post these rights.

You Can Leave

You're not locked in. If you or your family are unhappy, you can move to a different facility. If you improve and can go home, you can leave (with doctor approval).

1. Talk to Your Doctor

Discuss whether a nursing home is necessary. Ask for recommendations of good facilities in your area. If you need short-term rehab, the hospital social worker will help arrange it.

2. Visit Facilities

Tour at least 3-5 nursing homes. Go during mealtimes and activities to see what daily life is really like. Talk to residents and families if possible.

3. Check Quality Ratings

Look up facilities on Medicare Care Compare. Check star ratings, health inspections, staffing levels, and quality measures. Recent violations or complaints are red flags.

4. Understand the Costs

Ask about all costs (monthly room rate, therapy, medications, supplies). Find out what insurance covers. If you need Medicaid, ask if the facility accepts it and if there's a waiting list.

5. Read the Contract

Before signing anything, read the entire admission agreement. Understand payment terms, what happens if you run out of money, and the facility's discharge policies.