A nursing home, also known as a skilled nursing facility, is a place of residence for individuals who require constant medical care and assistance with everyday activities. They typically cater to older adults but can also serve younger individuals with disabilities or debilitating health conditions. Nursing homes are staffed with trained medical professionals and provide a wide range of health and personal care services.

Key characteristics of nursing homes include:

  1. 24-Hour Medical Supervision: Residents have access to round-the-clock care from licensed nurses, nursing assistants, and other medical professionals.
  2. Long-Term Care: Many residents live in nursing homes permanently because they have physical or mental conditions that require constant care and supervision.
  3. Rehabilitation Services: In addition to long-term care, nursing homes often provide rehabilitation for residents recovering from surgery, injury, or illness.
  4. Assistance with Daily Living: Staff assist residents with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, eating, and mobility.
  5. Medical Services: These include wound care, intravenous therapy, injections, catheter care, and monitoring of vital signs, as well as coordination with physicians for ongoing health issues.
  6. Social and Recreational Activities: Nursing homes typically offer a variety of programs to engage residents and encourage social interaction, including games, educational activities, and social events.
  7. Dining Services: Meals are provided to residents, often with attention to dietary restrictions and nutritional needs.
  8. Personal Care: This includes help with grooming, laundry, housekeeping, and other personal needs.
  9. Cost: Nursing home care is among the most expensive types of long-term care, with costs typically covered by a combination of personal funds, long-term care insurance, Medicaid (for those who qualify), and Medicare (for short-term rehabilitation stays under specific conditions).
  10. Regulation: Nursing homes are regulated by both federal and state governments to ensure they meet certain care and safety standards.

Nursing homes are designed to care for individuals who cannot be adequately cared for at home or in other assisted living settings. They offer a higher level of service and medical care than traditional senior living options, providing a necessary resource for those with significant healthcare needs.