Gail Infurna, RN, admissions director at EPOCH Senior Healthcare of Melrose north of Boston, explains why more people who need physical therapy and rehab are turning to skilled nursing facilities...

Most people are eager to get home as soon as possible after a hospital stay. But going directly home might not be the best choice when compared to spending some time in a skilled nursing facility (SNF), where you can rebuild your strength and get help with any new limitations on your physical ability. For example, a physical or occupational therapist can help you with the movements of bathing, dressing and grooming or even putting on your socks.

In most cases, insurance covers this follow-up treatment, and for a good reason: You will be able to return home a more independent person, able to do much more for yourself. Your family will be relieved that you can handle so many of the activities of daily living, such as:

• Getting  in and out of bed on your own
• Using a walker or other adaptive device, as needed
• Getting dressed
• Showering safely  ...

Whether you are recovering from pneumonia, heart disease, a stroke, a fall-related injury, or a joint replacement, you can utilize your insurance benefits as you regain your strength. Most insurance plans cover occupational therapy, physical therapy and/or speech therapy five to six days a week in a SNF. SNF nursing and rehab staff will help you and your family to become fully familiar and at case with any new equipment. They will also review potential homes safety hazards and recommended steps you can take to remain safe at home.

Recovery treatment may focus on:

• Walking safely around your home, including up and down stairs (also known as functional mobility and gait training)
• Exercises and activities to strengthen muscles and joints
• Relearning to bathe, dress and groom  yourself, as needed
• Balance and safety education
• Learning how to use adaptive equipment like walkers, canes, crutches and other helpful devices
• Speech and swallowing

A SNF offers support by nurses, as well as certified nursing assistants, 24 hours a day to help practice and strengthen your newly learned skills. You’ll feel more confident and so will your family. Once you are home again you can continue your rehabilitation with additional home care services.