Nursing homes (skilled nursing facilities) are designed for people in need of 24-hour nursing care. Nursing facilities provide many of the same residential components of other care options, including room and board, personal care, supervision, and may offer other types of therapy. Their onsite medical staff sets them apart from other types of housing. Nursing care is provided by registered nurses (RN), licensed practical nurses (LPN), and certified nurses aides (CNA's) at all hours of the day.

Care levels include:

• Intermediate level of care - Services required to maintain a resident's activities of daily living. Include personal care, supervision and safety.
• Skilled care - Comprehensive inpatient care designed for someone who has had an acute illness, injury, or chronic illness. Requires the regular services of a registered nurse for treatments and procedures. Also includes services provided by specially trained professionals, such as physical and occupational therapists. A three day hospital stay is required for this type of care. Also, this care is for a short period of time and is often covered in part by Medicare.