Aging well for seniors means staying active, mentally sharp and mobile for as long as possible. To reduce the risk of many diseases and to help delay or prevent the need for long-term care, the National Institute on Aging recommends following healthy habits, such as good nutrition, regular physical activity, not smoking and limiting alcohol intake. Mental health and engaging in regular social interaction are also important.
However, preventive health measures are not always enough. An estimated 70% of people currently turning 65 will require some form of long-term care in their lifetime, and they will receive care for an average of 3 years, according to the Pennsylvania Health Care Association (PHCA). In addition, eighteen percent of all seniors will require more than one year in a skilled nursing facility.
What is a skilled nursing facility?
Long-term care options differ in the amount and type of care needed. While assisted living communities and personal care homes provide help with activities of daily living and have medical assistance available, a skilled nursing facility, or sometimes called a nursing home, provides 24-hour medical services for residents who require more comprehensive care. These services may include:
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Speech therapy
- On-site care by physicians and nurse practitioners
- EKG, x-ray and lab services
- Podiatry
- Audiology
- Dental services
- IV therapy, picc lines, G tubes, wound vacs and ostomy care, foley catheters and JP drains
A top skilled nursing facility like Country Meadows Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Bethlehem, Pa. cares for residents’ emotional and mental health needs, too, including:
Pet therapy and a pet friendly campus
Small animals, such as dogs and cats, may visit as part of a therapy program. Pet therapy provides social and emotional benefits for aging adults. Studies have shown that pets can reduce isolation and loneliness, lessen anxiety and depression and provide opportunities for socialization.
Pastoral care
On-site chaplains provide spiritual programs and support for residents and their families. By listening and offering comfort during challenging times, chaplains complement the medical services provided by licensed healthcare professionals.
Fitness programs
Fitness programs are tailored to meet individual’s needs and abilities. At Country Meadows, an active fitness program is led by full-time fitness professionals. A rehabilitation physician provides physiatrist services to help treat and restore maximum function.
Residents typically can choose from private or semi-private rooms that are fully furnished. Housekeeping and laundry services are provided, too. Dining at a skilled nursing facility is not only designed to provide healthy meal choices but to provide assistance for residents with eating challenges and to accommodate special dietary requirements.
Top rated skilled nursing facility in Bethlehem, Pa.
Consistently recognized for quality, Country Meadows Nursing & Rehabilitation Center has been ranked once again as a U.S. News & World Report’s “2023-2024 Best Nursing Home” in its two overall categories for “Best Long-term Care” and “Best Short-Stay Rehabilitation”. Learn more about what makes us different.
Country Meadows Retirement Communities offers Assisted Living care in our Frederick, Maryland and Forks of Easton locations and Personal Care services at our other Pennsylvania communities. Call our friendly co-workers to learn more or to schedule a tour today!
Country Meadows
