Choosing the Right Short-Term Rehab Facility for Seniors

When researching short-term rehabilitation and senior care facilities, whether for yourself or an elderly loved one, it is important to know what to look for to minimize your concerns about the healing and rehabilitative process.  Understanding the difference between short-term rehab and long term care is an important first step. Short-term rehab facilities are typically the place aging adults go to recover from health issues in a professional, caring environment. They can receive a variety of therapy and nursing services during their stay as they heal and make progress with the peace-of-mind of having nursing staff available to meet their needs 24-hours a day.

Short Term versus Long Term Rehab

The first step to finding an appropriate senior rehab center is to determine the approximate length of stay that is required. For example, a minor health issue, such as an uncomplicated surgery, may only require a short term rehabilitation stay of anywhere from a couple of days to a month or so. In other cases, the patient may need to stay at the facility for several months following more advanced medical matters, like cardiac issues. Some facilities offer both types of care, while others specialize in one or the other.

Evaluating the Lifestyle Quality

Before making a decision, take the time to visit one or more senior rehabilitation center in your area. Ask to see patient rooms and common living spaces to evaluate the levels of cleanliness, comfort, and privacy that residents have. Some people feel uncomfortable sharing a room when they are ill or recovering, while others enjoy the companionship of a shared room during this time so ask if both private and shared rooms are available. Check out the dining options and menus to get a feel for the types of meals that residents eat each day. Are the options varied and healthy, or nondescript and unappetizing? Visit the community areas too; find out about social events and activities designed to keep residents engaged and entertained. Ideally, the facility should offer a variety of group activities and programs including access to religious services, as well ways to support individual interests.

What to Ask the Staff

Although some people are hesitant to ask staff challenging questions, by all means go ahead and talk to them to make sure all your concerns are addressed. In particular, ask about the availability of specialized staff, with regard to you or your loved one’s specific needs. For example, a person with a physical injury might need staff who are trained and qualified in physical therapy and nursing. Inquire about a personalized care plan and get actual details about it in advance. The staff should be able to provide information about the recovery process as well as therapy and rehabilitation. Apart from simply talking to the staff, it is also a good idea to talk to current residents or past clients if possible, to learn about their experiences and whether they recommend the facility. Ask to see their most recent “Satisfaction Survey” results and statistics on benchmarked outcomes.  This information will help you make your decision.

Key Takeaways 

• Find a rehab center that can properly provide short or long term rehabilitation for seniors, as needed.

• Tour the senior care facility in advance and examine the rooms, dining area, therapy facilities, and community rooms. 

• Talk to several staff members. Ask about qualifications, personalized care plans, and types of therapy provided.

• Talk to past or current residents for a more insightful view into the rehab center for seniors.

Need Help?

United Methodist Homes’ Bishop Wicke Health Center, on the Wesley Village campus in Shelton, CT offers short and long term specialized rehabilitation options. Visit our website and contact us today to learn more !