Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF)
State-licensed facilities that provide a safe, therapeutic environment for individuals who require rehabilitative care or can no longer live independently due to medical requirements. Also known as nursing homes or convalescent homes.
More Common Terms
- Board and Care Home A smaller, residentially-oriented assisted living facility that offers a lighter level of care than a skilled nursing facility in a home-like setting for 2-10 residents. They may also be referred to as residential care homes.
- Geriatrician A medical specialist who treats older adults. These are generally internal medicine or family practice physicians who have completed additional training and certification.
- Ombudsman A professional who investigates and resolves complaints on behalf of residents of nursing homes and other long-term care facilities.