Whether you’re planning ahead or responding to a recent medical event, understanding your options for senior care is crucial for deciding what’s best for you or your loved one.
Two of the most commonly discussed types of care are short-term skilled nursing and long-term care. And, while they may sound similar, each serves a very distinct purpose.
Here’s a simple breakdown to help you understand what each care type includes, how long it typically lasts, and who it’s designed to support. As always, consult your doctor first before making any decisions regarding your current or future healthcare.
Short-Term Skilled Nursing: Focused Recovery, Personalized Care
Short-term skilled nursing is designed to help seniors recover after a hospital stay due to illness, injury, or surgery. This type of care is often referred to as rehabilitation or post-acute care, and the goal is to help individuals regain strength, mobility, and independence so they can return home safely.
Typical length of stay: A few days to a few weeks, depending on the condition and progress.
Common services include:
- Physical, occupational, and speech therapy
- Pain management
- Wound care
- IV therapy and medication management
- Daily assistance with mobility and activities of daily living
Long-Term Care: Ongoing Support for Daily Living
Long-term care, sometimes called long-term skilled nursing, is meant for individuals who need consistent, 24/7 care due to chronic illness, disability, cognitive decline, or the inability to live safely on their own. While many long-term care residents still receive skilled medical attention, the emphasis is on comfort, safety, and day-to-day quality of life.
Typical length of stay: Ongoing, often measured in months or years.
Common services include:
- Full-time nursing supervision
- Assistance with bathing, dressing, and eating
- Medication monitoring and chronic disease management
- Cognitive support for conditions like Alzheimer’s and other dementias
- Emotional and spiritual support for residents and families
Not sure which type of care is right for your situation? At Baptist Retirement, we’re committed to compassionate, expert care tailored to your needs—no matter how short or long the stay. Reach out to our team to learn more and talk through your options. We’re always here to help.