Skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) have come a very long way since their inception. Sometime in the 17th century they were called “poorhouses” or “almshouses”. Health care has highly progressed through the years in terms of clinical practices, resident rights, quality improvement, and the overall approach to the needs and wants of residents and patients. Regrettably, even in today’s society, many myths about nursing homes still persist. Following are just a few facts that will be enlightened from the untruths.
Myth: Skilled Nursing facilities are like hospitals.
Fact: Although SNF’s offer comprehensive nursing care, they are very different from hospitals. Whether a person is admitted as a short-term rehabilitative patient or a long-term resident, a SNF offers a more home-like and comfortable atmosphere and a less-controlled environment than a hospital. A SNF offers a variety of services such as having a choice in customizing their daily routine, socialization, companionship, recreational activities, dining areas, etc.
Myth: Skilled Nursing Care centers have unpleasant odors.
Fact: In a SNF you may encounter an odor at certain times of the day no matter how clean. It is part of the care needs of the patient and is not an odor that should linger.
Myth: Medicare or health insurance will pay for a long stay.
Fact: Many people inaccurately believe that Medicare or health insurance will cover long term care costs indefinitely. Medicare is not a long-term coverage insurance. There are particular conditions an individual would need to meet in order to be covered by Medicare. For instance, a three-night admission stay at a hospital will qualify a person to be eligible for traditional Medicare coverage. Medicare offers limited coverage for recipients who require skilled nursing care or rehabilitative care services. For more details, feel free to contact our Admissions Director at Middlebury Convalescent Home for more information.
Myth: Residents living there are sick and dying.
Nursing homes do care for the elderly and the terminally ill. However, a majority of SNF’s also cater to individuals who need rehabilitation from surgery or an accident. Those people recuperate and are either discharged back to their home or move on to independent living such as assisted living facilities.