Long-Term Care
Caring for seniors in a variety of care facility environments
Small or large, skilled nursing and assisted living facilities are lively communities where healthcare professionals work together to support residents. These facilities take a person-centered approach, focusing on individual needs. Unlike other care settings, where patient and family interactions are short-term, geriatric care workers build meaningful relationships with residents and their families. Collaborative teams use their diverse skills and knowledge to provide the best possible care in a supportive environment.
Skilled Nursing
Skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) provide round-the-clock nursing care and are licensed by the state. They are inspected and regulated by each state’s department of health services. They help people recovering from a temporary or permanent illness or injury and assist with daily activities like bathing, eating, dressing, getting in and out of bed, walking, and managing incontinence. Residents in these facilities can no longer live alone and need more care than their family members or current caregivers can provide.
Short Stay Rehabilitation
Short-stay rehabilitation programs provide therapy for people recovering from surgery, illness, or injury, helping them to achieve their maximum functional capacity so they can return home. These patients are not necessarily frail or elderly. They may just need physical, occupational, or speech therapy or other skilled services after a hospital stay. The length of stay for those needing short-term, in-patient rehabilitation can range from a couple of days to several weeks. SNFs offer short-term rehabilitation services that may be covered by Medicare for up to 100 days. Dedicated, skilled therapists work alongside physicians, nurses, social workers and nutritionists, who work with the patient and family members to create a personalized plan. Their goal is to help patients regain function and return to their community at their best possible level.
Memory Care
Memory care supports people with Alzheimer’s, dementia and other types of memory problems. Alzheimer’s and dementia pose unique care challenges. Staff are specially trained to help with daily activities while creating a safe, calming environment. Memory care staff are specially trained to assist people with dementia or cognitive impairment. These communities often have dedicated areas for residents requiring specialized care and include design features that help reduce stress for those with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Both indoor and outdoor spaces are designed to be secure and soothing. In addition to the general state-level licensing of care facilities, memory care may follow extra regulations requiring care providers to perform certain additional tasks and to disclose the special services they offer.
CAREER PATHS IN LONG-TERM CARE
Where will your new career take you?
Certified Nurse Assistant
The Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) role is a vital part of senior living communities. CNAs provide hands-on compassionate care, ensuring the well-being of residents. CNAs are essential in healthcare and have opportunities for growth.
Nursing
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Registered Nurses (RNs) provide professional medical care to residents with a personalized approach. Both requre professional degrees.
Administration
Administrators in senior living communities are responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the facility and ensuring all state and federal regulations are met.
Social Services
Social services personnel work with healthcare professionals to advocate for patients, support new residents in adjusting, and provide counseling.
Therapy
Therapists and related staff members work one-on-one with residents to improve mobility and strength.
Care Coordination
Care coordination staff work with new residents and their families. Their duties include admissions and customer service.
Activities
Activities directors and staff add a little fun to residential life. They plan and lead fun events to keep residents engaged.
Support Services
It takes many hands to ensure life runs smoothly in a senior care community. Laundry, maintenance, housekeeping and dietary staff members all play vital roles.