Nursing Home Vs Senior Living
We have found that there is a misconception of what a Nursing Home is and what it offers. A Nursing Home, also known as, Skilled Nursing, Skilled Nursing Facility, Convalescent Hospitals, Rehabilitation Center, etc. Is ONLY for those who have medical needs and need help from nurses or doctors on a regular basis. Nursing Homes ARE NOT Senior Living communities or a long term living option, unless there is a situation where, again, there is a need for close supervision over medical needs.
There is an idea out there that ones parents, when they are at the age of needing help, can simply move into a nursing home and it will be covered by Medicare/Medical. This probably comes from the olden days where all that was available in terms or senior living was an actual nursing home. The Senior Industry has since evolved and has actual licensed Homes and Communities for the elderly that provide caregivers that assist with Activities of Daily Living as well as meals, activities, transportation and more.
These Homes and Communities are not covered by Medicare or Medical generally speaking. They are an out-of-pocket expense. They accept private pay, Long Term Care Insurance and Veterans Aid & Attendance Benefit.