Nursing home care facts for kids
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Nursing homes are special places where older people or people with disabilities can live and get the care they need. You might hear them called by other names like care homes or rest homes. These places are for people who don't need to be in a hospital but can't be fully cared for at home.
Nursing homes have nurses and other helpers available all day and night. These staff members look after the residents' health needs. They also help with daily tasks like eating, bathing, and getting around.
Some nursing homes also offer short stays. This is for people who need to get better after surgery, an illness, or an injury. They might get help like physical therapy (to help with movement), occupational therapy (to help with daily activities), or speech-language therapy (to help with talking or swallowing). Nursing homes also offer fun activities and keep the living areas clean. Some even have special care for people with memory problems, like Alzheimer's.
Contents
What Services Do Nursing Homes Offer?
Nursing homes provide many different services to help people live comfortably and safely. These services are designed to meet the unique needs of each resident.
Daily Living Support
One main service is helping with everyday tasks. This includes things like getting dressed, bathing, eating meals, and moving from one place to another. Staff members are always there to lend a hand.
Medical Care and Health Monitoring
Nurses in nursing homes give medicines and check on residents' health regularly. They can also help with wounds or other medical needs. If someone needs special medical attention, the nurses are trained to provide it.
Rehabilitation and Therapy
For people recovering from an injury or illness, nursing homes offer special therapies.
- Physical therapy helps residents get stronger and move better.
- Occupational therapy teaches people how to do daily tasks more easily.
- Speech therapy helps with speaking, understanding, and swallowing.
These therapies help residents regain their independence.
Social Activities and Fun
Nursing homes also focus on keeping residents active and happy. They plan many social activities like games, music, crafts, and group outings. These activities help residents make friends and feel part of a community.
Memory Care
Some nursing homes have special sections for people with memory conditions, like dementia. This is called memory care. Staff in these areas are specially trained to help residents who might be confused or need extra support with their memory. They create a safe and calm environment.
Who Works in a Nursing Home?
A team of caring professionals works together in a nursing home to look after the residents. Each person has an important role.
Nurses
Registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs) are key staff members. They manage residents' medical care, give medications, and check on their health. They also supervise other staff members.
Nursing Aides
Nursing aides, also called certified nursing assistants (CNAs), help residents with their daily needs. They assist with bathing, dressing, eating, and moving around. They spend a lot of time with residents and are very important for their comfort.
Therapists
Physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech therapists work with residents who need rehabilitation. They create special exercise plans and activities to help people recover and improve their skills.
Other Staff Members
Many other people help make a nursing home a good place to live. This includes activity coordinators who plan fun events, social workers who help residents and their families, and dietary staff who prepare healthy meals. Housekeeping staff keep the facility clean and tidy.
Images for kids
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Poorhouses were early places that offered care to older people. This picture shows "The workroom at St James's workhouse" from 1808.
See also
In Spanish: Residencia de personas mayores para niños
