Aging is a natural part of life’s journey, but it can also come with specific challenges. For some, growing older can make us more prone to injuries or take longer to recover from surgeries. Rehabilitation programs can help address this need.
Rehabilitation programs for older adults focus on using therapeutic activities to improve and maintain mobility, physical function, and independence after surgery, illness, or injuries.
Understanding Rehabilitation Treatment
Rehabilitation is a therapeutic process that focuses on restoring or improving physical function, mobility, and independence after an injury, illness, or surgery.
Rehabilitation can be particularly beneficial for older adults. It addresses concerns like joint replacement surgery, stroke recovery, falls, or chronic conditions like arthritis. Rehabilitation’s primary goal is to help older adults maintain their independence.
What to Expect in a Rehabilitation Program
Rehabilitation programs are tailored to each individual’s specific needs. They typically involve a combination of physical, occupational, and speech therapies.
- Physical therapy focuses on exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and balance.
- Occupational therapy helps individuals relearn daily activities such as dressing, bathing, and cooking.
- Speech therapy can assist with communication difficulties and swallowing disorders.
For example, an older adult recovering from hip replacement surgery might participate in exercises to strengthen the hip muscles, improve range of motion, and practice walking with assistance. They might also work on strategies to safely perform daily tasks as independently as possible.
How Long Is Rehabilitation Treatment?
The duration of rehabilitation varies depending on the individual’s condition and progress. Everyone is different and requires a unique approach to their level of care.
Some individuals may require only a few weeks of therapy, while others may need more time. Our rehabilitation team, consisting of nurses and physical and occupational therapists, regularly assesses and monitors progress.
Upon entering the program, older adults and their families or caregivers can expect a comprehensive assessment to determine each resident’s needs and goals. Our rehabilitation team will create a personalized plan outlining the therapies, frequency of sessions, and expected outcomes.
We’ll check in with residents regularly to monitor their progress and make any necessary adjustments to their treatment plan to provide the most suitable outcome for recovery.
How Does Rehabilitation Differ from Skilled Nursing?
The focus on recovery in rehabilitation programs may lead some individuals to think this program is similar to a skilled nursing community. However, this isn’t the case.
Skilled nursing is a specialized form of medical care and assistance provided by registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, and licensed nursing assistants under the guidance of physicians in a long-term care community. It includes medical care offered through physical therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and well-being through music therapy.
Skilled nursing provides round-the-clock care to those who need support with activities of daily living (ADLs) and healthcare. Depending on an individual’s health status and overall well-being, one can remain in a skilled nursing community temporarily or long-term.
Skilled nursing is often necessary for individuals who need intensive medical care, such as wound management, intravenous (IV) therapy, medication administration, or post-operative care. It provides more medical support than rehabilitation services, making it suitable for individuals with complex health conditions.
At Kingston in Perrysburg, we offer both rehabilitation and skilled nursing at our Kingston Rehabilitation of Perrysburg Community. Additionally, we also offer both assisted living and memory care services at our separate community, Kingston Residence of Perrysburg.
Difference in Focus of Care
Individuals in skilled nursing have access to the same therapies as those in rehabilitation treatment. However, individuals focused on rehabilitation treatment alone don’t have access to the same round-the-clock care and amenities as residents in skilled nursing communities.
Rehabilitation focuses on restoring function and independence through therapeutic interventions, while skilled nursing provides comprehensive medical care for individuals with serious health conditions.
Rehabilitation programs are typically short-term and goal-oriented, focusing on achieving specific functional outcomes. They are most suitable for individuals who need to regain physical function after illness, injury, or surgery and those who can work towards specific goals.
In contrast, skilled nursing is most suitable for individuals who require round-the-clock care and support. Residents in skilled nursing can undergo rehabilitation therapy, but the focus of this treatment differs from the goals that are set in rehabilitation care.
When Would One Qualify for Skilled Nursing Care?
Individuals who have recently undergone major surgery, experienced severe illness, or require close medical supervision due to chronic conditions may need skilled nursing care. For example, an older adult recovering from a complicated surgery may need skilled nursing to manage pain, monitor vital signs, and prevent infections.
Schedule a Visit
Understanding the differences between skilled nursing care and rehabilitation plans can help you make the right choice for your loved one’s care. If you or your loved one needs help with recovery, regaining independence, and improving quality of life, then rehabilitation may be the right choice.
Visiting our skilled care center can help you make the right decision. Connect with our team at Kingston Rehabilitation of Perrysburg to schedule a tour!
