Supporting Your Loved One’s Transition to a Skilled Nursing Facility: A Guide for Family Caregivers

By The Family Room Care Team Last reviewed June 2025

After a stay in critical care, your loved one may need to move to a Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) for further care and rehabilitation. This guide will help you understand what to expect and how to support your loved one during this transition.

What is a Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF)?

A Skilled Nursing Facility offers both short-term rehab and long-term care. Here’s what you should know:

  • Insurance Coverage:
    • Insurance usually pays for short stays if your loved one is making progress in rehab.
    • They can get up to 2 hours of rehab a day.
    • Encourage your loved one to use all of this rehab time for faster recovery.
  • Care Provided:
    • Nurses and aides help with:
      • Giving medicines
      • Caring for wounds
      • Personal care (like bathing or dressing)
    • Doctors will see your loved one:
      • Within 3 days of arriving
      • Regularly until discharge

Working with the SNF Team

  • Staffing:
    • Many SNFs face staffing challenges.
    • Your loved one might get less personal attention than at home.
    • However, the SNF can help them become more independent and prepare for a safe return home.
  • Tips for Better Care:
    • If using the bathroom is difficult, ask about “timed toileting”:
      • Staff will help your loved one go every 4-5 hours while awake.
      • This helps avoid rushing or accidents.
    • Bring photos of your home:
      • Helps staff practice relevant activities (walking, stairs, etc.)
      • Assists in choosing appropriate equipment for home use
  • Staying Involved:
    • Request a meeting upon arrival
    • The team has care meetings at least once a week.
    • Ask them to schedule when you can join in person or by phone.
    • Speak with the SNF social worker about resources for a safe transition home.
    • Ask about any new care tasks you may need to learn
  • Keep a notebook
    • Record questions and info from visits
    • List medications and allergies
    • Record contact information as needed
    • Track care tasks you can help with

You have learned a lot in this process and you are up to the task of helping your loved one.