As we age, normal routine tasks and caring for ourselves become harder and harder. This unfortunate reality can be tough as we experience the difficulties that come with aging, or experience a loved one go through such complications. However, there are many options for helping the injured or elderly become as independent as possible. Nursing homes, skilled nursing care at home, and physical therapy are three common care services that aim to help the injured and the elderly, and it can be very beneficial for creating a healthy, safe and quality lifestyle. However, all three of these services are very different, and some are better suited for each elderly individual.

Nursing homes and skilled care nursing facilities are very common for elderly individuals that can no longer live independently, but don’t need to be monitored at a hospital. Most nursing homes and facilities have doctors, nursing aides and skilled nurses on hand 24 hours a day in order to help assist residents with every day tasks such as bathing and getting dressed. Additionally, nursing homes can differ from other senior living facilities in that they also provide a high level of medical care. Knowing how to choose a nursing home can differ depending on the specific accommodations desired. However, choosing a nursing home should always have cleanliness, friendless of staff, and patient care as a high priority.

Skilled nursing care at home (otherwise known as skilled nursing in home care) can be used for elderly individuals or individuals recovering from surgery, illnesses and injury. While in home skilled nursing care can be used for individuals of all ages, it is most commonly used among elderly individuals who take longer to recover from surgery and injuries such as hip or knee replacement surgery, or those recovering from traumatic situations like fractures or cardiac events. The overall goal of skilled nursing care at home is to improve the individual’s daily functional abilities, allowing for a smooth transition from the hospital to home.

Finally, physical therapy (PT) provides frequent care from licensed health care professionals with a master’s or doctorate degree in physical therapy. Physical therapists are often used for elderly individuals, but can be used for individuals of all ages who are recovering from a major injury. PT helps to improve or restore the physical function and fitness level of patients who have been previously injured, or who are recovering from surgery. Physical therapy almost always includes exercise such as stretching, core exercises, weight lifting, and walking. A physical therapist might also use treatment methods techniques such as heat, cold, water, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation to help improve mobility and pain relief for their patients. Visit here for more information.