When you or a loved one requires skilled nursing care or other care services, you should understand the distinctions between long vs. short-term care to choose the appropriate senior living options. Long and short-term care differs not only in terms of the timeframe but also in terms of services provided and the goals of the care. Understanding these distinctions can help you choose the services you or a loved one may require.
Duration of Care
Short-term care can range from a few days to several months, and it aims to assist someone in recovering from surgery, hospitalization, injury, or illness. There is an expectation that their condition will improve in the short term. Short-term care is appropriate for regaining function and independence after having a fall, mild stroke, serious illness, or surgery.
Long-term care is suitable for older adults with progressive or chronic health conditions that necessitate ongoing care or assistance. Conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, later stages of dementia, permanent disabilities, or stroke will require a level of care that transcends what loved ones can and are able to provide on their own. Due to the progression of their conditions, they will have increasing needs which necessitate care for the rest of their lives.
Types of Services and Treatments
Custodial and medical services are typically the focus of short-term care. Skilled nursing services will provide wound care, medication administration, and rehabilitation services such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. A person needing short-term care may benefit from assistance with daily activities, such as eating, bathing, grooming, and using the restroom. They would also require help with household chores until they regain their independence.
Long-term care services are comprehensive as they cater to patients with chronic conditions. The services include memory care, therapeutic, medical, and personal care for older adults with difficulty functioning independently. Aside from medical needs, skilled nursing facility staff can help with custodial care such as grooming, bathing, eating, and moving around. While therapies like physical and occupational therapy are vital in short-term care, they are also provided to long-term care patients to relieve pain and discomfort and improve mobility and functionality as much as possible. In communities that provide long-term care, medical professionals are on duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to deal with any health issues that may arise, providing loved ones and patients with peace of mind.
Goals and Objectives
The goal for short-term care is intended to be temporary. Short-term care is used by patients in rehabilitation, where their condition or health is expected to improve. They require assistance with medical care, monitoring, therapy, or daily activities until they fully recover and are ready to go home. The short-term care goal is to assist the patient in returning home or resuming normal activities and functions.
However, the goal of long-term care typically aims to preserve the patient’s quality of life and health to the greatest extent possible. Long-term care in senior living frequently includes amenities to assist with these goals, such as social activities, health, and wellness activities, concierge services, and transportation.
