Types of Long-Term Care
There is a wide array of care options for the elderly and the disabled. NCHCFA represents member facilities that specialize in skilled nursing care. They include:
Skilled Nursing Facilities - also called Nursing Homes
A licensed, federally certified facility that provides 24-hour nursing services for a person who has serious health care needs but does not require the intense level of care provided in a hospital. Rehabilitation services may also be provided. Many of these facilities participate in Medicaid or Medicare programs.
Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs)
Features "stepped" levels of care - from independent residential (cottages/apartments) to assisted living to skilled nursing care - with provisions for moving from one level of care to another as one's needs change.
Other long-term care options:
Residential Options
Assisted Living Facilities
May provide 24-hour non-medical services for those with specific personal care needs (for example, providing one meal a day or housekeeping services). Settings may include self-contained apartments or single or shared room units with private or area baths.
Adult Care Homes
An assisted living residence for two or more residents. Provides 24-hour personal care services, but not medical/nursing care. However, medications and other health care services may be dispensed following doctor's orders.
Home Care Options
Home Health Care Services
For people who are still able to live independently in their homes, but need assistance with health services such as medications, wound care, and physical therapy, or help with basic needs such as bathing or dressing.
Home Care Services
For people who still live at home, but may need assistance with meals, shopping, light housekeeping, money management, personal hygiene and grooming, and laundry.