Nursing homes provide comprehensive nursing, medical, social and rehabilitative care. Licensed staff administer medications and coordinate treatment regimens. Residents are under the care of a physician, and all nursing homes have a physician on call to respond to acute needs, write prescriptions, and order treatments and tests. Rehabilitation may include physical, occupational, recreational, and speech therapies. Residents receive assistance with personal care such as bathing, meals, dressing and toileting. A registered dietician evaluates residents’ dietary requirements and ensures that they are met.
Social activities and recreation are frequently provided; many facilities schedule activities based on a resident’s needs and preferences.