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Grandfather, father and son walking outdoors

How to Tell When an Elderly Loved One Needs Senior Rehab

As loved ones age, it’s natural to wonder whether they’re getting all the support they need and deserve. We share your concern – that’s why we’re here to give you the information you need. When someone you love needs the right kind of care to recover after surgery, injury or illness, senior rehabilitation services could be right for them.

Let’s start by arming you with the knowledge to make a more informed decision. When you continue reading, you’ll learn all about the differences between typical nursing homes and modern rehab centers. You’ll also learn some tips for talking about care with your parent or loved one.

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A SKILLED NURSING FACILITY AND REHAB CENTERS?

A skilled nursing facility is a provider that offers live-in care under the regular supervision of nurses and supporting caregivers. This can take different forms – from more clinical environments to community living that emulates many comforts of home. Typically, ‘skilled nursing’ refers to long-term care for chronic health concerns that are hard to treat in other settings.

Senior rehabilitation has a different goal – to get residents back home as soon as their health allows. But you might be surprised to learn that rehabilitation services are frequently offered in the same building as long-term skilled nursing. That’s because, in large part, both long- and short-term nursing residents have very similar care needs.

No matter which level of service is most appropriate for your loved one, you’ll find that many skilled nursing providers defy outdated nursing home stereotypes. Resident perks like flavorful dining and therapy gyms are becoming more and more common. And recreational activities help residents stay socially engaged.

Read more about skilled nursing care here.

TIPS FOR TALKING TO YOUR PARENT ABOUT REHABILITATION

As you continue to learn about senior care, you might be wondering how you can start a conversation with your loved one. Talking about care with someone you love can be tough – especially when it involves even a temporary move. Here are a few tips to try:

  • Remind them it’s only temporary. You know that a stay in senior rehabilitation isn’t the same as moving to a community permanently – but they might not. Tell them about the difference between short-stay rehabilitation and long-term nursing care.
  • Get all the facts first. Learn more about communities in your area like Westview of Derby The more you know about a particular care center, the easier it is to convince your loved one that it’s not a nursing home.
  • If possible, give them time. Most people will want to go directly home after a stint in the hospital. Convincing them they need more live-in care isn’t always easy. Once you’ve stated your case, fall back for a little bit. Pushing too hard can be counterproductive.

Are you a care professional (or just want to learn how professionals communicate with seniors)? Read this post on communicating with older adults about care.

FIND BETTER CARE AT WESTVIEW OF DERBY

When you or a loved one are in need, you can lean on us. Our short-stay rehabilitation puts residents on the road to recovery with personalized care plans designed to their fit unique needs.

Questions? Don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team is always ready to help.