10 Things to Know About Sub-Acute Care

The sub-acute care industry is constantly evolving. This article will cover ten things you might not know about the industry and what that could mean for you as a potential patient or guardian.

#1. Sub-Acute Care is NOT the Same as Residential Care
Sub acute care for seniors is a type of long-term care that you would find in a nursing home or assisted living facility. This type of care is mainly for individuals recovering from an illness, injury, surgery, or medical procedure.

Besides that, patients are generally in pretty good shape. It is not for individuals who are sick to their stomachs or in constant pain. Otherwise, they would need to be admitted to a hospital.

#2. Sub-Acute Care Can Get Provided in Several Areas of the Country
Residents under the age of 65 needing care can often find it in their local community.

It’s recommended that you look for these types of facilities online. Many states have their lists of licensed facilities that are approved to treat patients with sub-acute conditions.

3. This Care Can Require Significant Investment.
With the high level of care required at sub-acute facilities, your family's financial responsibility may increase. 

This type of long-term care is sometimes referred to as "boutique" or "niche" care because different communities provide high-end care, so they can charge more than they would in a conventional nursing home or assisted living facility.
It's essential to keep in mind that there are many cheaper ways to provide this care. Some include boarding and long-term care facilities owned and operated by hospices, religious organizations, or private businesses.

With that said, you may want to research all of your options before enrolling a loved one in a facility.

4. Sub-Acute Facilities have Different Types of Departments
There are several departments that you will find in a facility. Here is a list of the different categories to look for and what they do:

• General Care Department: Provides patients with various treatment needs such as wound care, skin care, weight loss, and diet therapies.
  
  
  
• Physical Therapy Area: Provides occupational therapy to patients recovering from specific health issues like broken bones or surgery.
  
  
  
• Diet Center: Helps obese patients with proper nutrition and meal plans to help them lose weight.
  
  
  
• Social Work Department: Helps patients and family members with stress management, grief, estate planning, and other concerns.
  
  
  
• Pharmacy Department Provides patients with medications they may need while at the facility, including extended prescriptions.
  
  
  
• Brain Injury Center: Caring for individuals who have been diagnosed with a brain injury and need specialized services.
  

5. Sub-Acute Care Facilities Allow Pets
Many families visit a facility to see if they would be allowed to enjoy living with their pets. Most facilities allow pets, but remember that the facility may restrict residents from having certain types of dogs. It is due to the potential for injuries that occur from large dog breeds. Some facilities also have specific areas where they do not allow pets. Ask the staff if you are unsure about any rules and regulations.

6. Sub-Acute Care Facilities Provide Special Diets
Since several nutrition requirements are involved at these types of facilities, they may offer special diets for their residents. Some of these are restricted to certain foods, but some require the use of specific medications to help patients with proper nutrition.

It’s recommended that you ask if the facility has any dietary restrictions before sending a loved one there.

7. Sub-Acute Care Facilities have Different Levels of Security
The level of security at a facility depends on the state in which you live. In some states, you may find a facility with lower security levels than in others.

In most facilities, you can meet your loved one at their entrance without any problem, but in others, they may require that visitors have an escort. What matters, though, is that the facility has a legitimate reason to have security. It is often to protect their patients from possible injuries or illnesses.

8. Facilities Have Their Own Set of Rules and Regulations
These are a combination of state and federally mandated safety standards that they must follow. It is often done to protect the safety of their patients from serious diseases or injuries.

9. Most Facilities Offer Daily Therapy
Many facilities offer daily therapy. This therapy can get done through housekeeping, medication, and regular health screenings. You want to ensure your loved one gets daily therapy at their facility. However, you should always ask your loved ones if they would like this to be done as well.

10. When Can One Leave a Sub-acute Care Facility?
Don't worry. You do not have to send a loved one to a facility indefinitely. Many of their patients only stay in the facilities for several weeks or months. It depends on their health issues and if they are progressing towards getting well.

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