Skilled nursing care and assisted living are often confused with one another. However, according to today’s guest, Stephen Samuelian, the two are very different.
Interviewing Experts: Good morning and thank you for taking the time to chat with us today.
Stephen Samuelian: I’m glad to do it.
Interviewing Experts: So, tell us, what is the difference between a skilled nursing care facility and an assisted living community?
Stephen Samuelian: While both provide care to senior adults, a skilled nursing facility is different in that these facilities are geared more toward seniors who cannot care for themselves.
Interviewing Experts: Is a skilled nursing care center a rehab program?
Stephen Samuelian: They are set up for physical rehabilitation, yes. Typically, however, a nursing facility is a place for seniors to live in a safe and nurturing environment. One of the many services available in a proper skilled nursing care center is, of course, physical rehabilitation.
Interviewing Experts: What are some reasons a senior adult may need physical rehabilitation?
Stephen Samuelian: Many seniors need special emphasis placed on learning how to do simple task again like walking or climbing stairs. This can be due to an accident, such as a broken hip, or neurological impairment such as with the stroke.
Interviewing Experts: What other services are available in a skilled nursing facility?
Stephen Samuelian: Since these facilities are set up to provide 24/7 care, they offer everything from post-operative wound care to speech therapy.
Interviewing Experts: What types of occupational therapy do nursing facilities offer?
Stephen Samuelian: Occupational therapy is a form of physical and mental therapy that helps a senior relearn and regained the ability to perform simple task such as eating, dressing, or bathing.
nterviewing Experts: What about the day-to-day care?
Stephen Samuelian: Like an assisted living community, nursing facilities will offer educational and social activities as well as some transportation services for off-site doctor visits and shopping trips.
Interviewing Experts: What else should I look for when trying to choose a skilled facility for my aging parent?
Stephen Samuelian: Make sure the food is good! As funny as it may sound, this is one of the most frequently overlooked yet most appreciated amenities of nursing care.
Interviewing Experts: Are skilled nursing facilities equipped to handle patients with debilitating conditions such as Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s?
Stephen Samuelian: Many – but not all – skilled nursing facilities are designed specifically to accommodate these types of patients.
Interviewing Experts: What is the best advice you can give an adult child in our quest for proper care of aging parents?
Stephen Samuelian: I would say to take a tour of the facility. Get to know the staff and really look at the details. Check with your local state governing agency to make sure the facility has no infractions against it.
Interviewing Experts: What do you mean by “details?”
Stephen Samuelian: Check out the cleanliness of the floors, sinks, halls, and common areas. Look to see if residents look happy and well cared for. Is the staff communicating and interacting with residents? Does the facility have safety in mind? Most importantly, do you feel comfortable that these people will provide dignified care for your loved one?
Interviewing Experts: Thank you for your input. That’s all the time we have for today. We look forward to speaking with you again.
Stephen Samuelian: It’s been my pleasure.
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