When aging loved ones face serious illness, surgery recovery, or a chronic health condition, families often consider care options that go beyond what typical senior communities can offer. One such option is a skilled nursing home—a facility that provides comprehensive medical care, rehabilitation, and 24/7 nursing support.
In this guide, we’ll explore what a skilled nursing facility is, how long-term care and short-term rehabilitation differ, and what makes Skaalen Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Stoughton, WI, a trusted choice for compassionate senior care.
What Is a Skilled Nursing Home?
A skilled nursing home, sometimes called a nursing facility or nursing home, is a licensed residential healthcare setting designed for older adults who require consistent medical attention. These facilities are staffed with registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, and other healthcare professionals trained to provide skilled nursing care, including: Wound care and post-operative treatment
- Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech-language therapy
- Medication management and pain control
- Assistance with daily living (e.g., bathing, dressing, mobility)
- Social activities and emotional support
At Skaalen Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, these services are delivered in a warm, faith-based setting that values dignity and personalized attention for every resident.
Short-Term vs. Long-Term Care in a Skilled Nursing Facility
Short-Term Rehabilitation
Short-term stays are common after a hospital stay or surgery, where recovery includes professional medical supervision. Rehabilitative services such as physical and occupational therapy help residents regain strength and return to their own home when safe.
Long-Term Care
Long-term care supports nursing home residents with chronic or progressive conditions like stroke, dementia, or mobility limitations. These individuals need ongoing nursing care, help with personal care, and medical services not easily managed at home.
Both types of care are available at Skaalen center, where customized care plans ensure each resident receives the exact support they need—whether temporary or lifelong.
Services Offered in a Skilled Nursing Facility
A licensed skilled nursing facility must meet high regulatory standards for safety, staffing, and care quality. Services typically include:
- 24-hour nursing care and on-call health care providers
- Medical equipment and supplies
- On-site rehabilitation programs
- Nutritional and dietary services
- Transportation to medical appointments
- Coordination with hospice care and other related services
- Access to social workers, clergy, and counselors
You can learn more about these offerings at Skaalen Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, which emphasizes resident-centered values in every aspect of care.
Who Needs Skilled Nursing?
A person may benefit from skilled nursing when:
- They’ve had a hospital stay and need short-term recovery support
- Managing chronic health conditions at home is no longer safe
- A family caregiver cannot provide adequate medical supervision
- They need assistance with taking medications, nutrition, or mobility
Common conditions requiring nursing home care include Parkinson’s, stroke recovery, hip fractures, post-operative care, and general frailty in older people.
Cost and Coverage Considerations
The cost of a nursing facility can vary depending on services, length of stay, and insurance. While Medicare may cover short-term rehabilitation, it generally doesn’t cover long-term care. Other options include Medicaid, long-term care insurance, or personal funds.
At Skaalen, our team is happy to assist families in understanding payment options and navigating programs like veterans benefits and covered services.
Why Choose Skaalen Nursing & Rehabilitation Center?
Skaalen Nursing & Rehabilitation Center stands out for its:
- Faith-based, mission-driven care rooted in dignity and compassion
- Wide variety of services such as therapy services, nutrition services, and leisure activities
- Comprehensive rehabilitation programs
- Experienced, highly trained staff
- Comfortable private and semi-private rooms
- Active spiritual and social activities program
Whether you’re exploring care for yourself or a loved one, Skaalen offers a safe, supportive community committed to enhancing each resident’s quality of life.
Explore Skilled Nursing Options Today
When the need arises for a skilled nursing facility that treats every resident like family, turn to Skaalen. Whether you’re planning a short rehab stay or looking for high-quality long-term care, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
Learn more or schedule a visit: Skaalen Nursing & Rehabilitation Center
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between short-term and long-term care?
Short-term care, or rehabilitation, is designed for individuals recovering from a specific event like surgery or a hospital stay. The primary goal is to help them regain strength and skills to safely return home. Long-term care is for individuals with chronic or progressive health conditions who require ongoing medical support and assistance with daily living that cannot be managed at home.
Who typically needs skilled nursing care?
A person may need skilled nursing care if they are recovering from a hospital stay, have a chronic condition like Parkinson's or dementia that is difficult to manage at home, or need consistent medical supervision that a family caregiver cannot provide. This includes assistance with medication, mobility, and personal care.
What kinds of services are offered in a skilled nursing facility?
These facilities provide a wide range of services, including 24-hour nursing care, medication management, and various therapies like physical, occupational, and speech therapy. They also offer nutritional services, assistance with daily activities such as bathing and dressing, social programs, and transportation to medical appointments.
How is the cost of a skilled nursing home covered?
Costs can be covered through several means. Medicare may cover short-term rehabilitation stays following a hospitalization, but it typically does not cover long-term care. Other options include Medicaid, private long-term care insurance, and personal funds. Some facilities also help families navigate programs like veterans benefits.
What makes Skaalen Nursing & Rehabilitation Center a good choice?
Skaalen stands out for its faith-based, compassionate approach to care. It offers a comprehensive range of services, from skilled nursing to personal care and rehabilitation, all delivered by an experienced staff. The center provides a supportive community with comfortable rooms and an active social and spiritual program to enhance residents' quality of life.