Nursing homes are a type of residential care that provides around-the-clock nursing care for elderly people.  Nursing homes also provide short-term rehabilitative stays after surgery, an illness or injury which may require physical therapy, occupational therapy or speech-language therapy. Nursing homes offer other services such as planned activities and daily housekeeping services. 

Nursing homes may also be referred to as convalescent care, skilled nursing or a long-term facility. Nursing homes may offer memory care services or have a separate area specified for memory care.

Nursing homes require that at least once licensed RN is present at all times to assess residents and to monitor their outcomes. The RN's job duties include implementing care plans, administering medications, recording and maintaining accurate reports for each resident, monitoring and recording medical change and providing direction to the nursing assistant and licensed practical nurses or licensed vocational nurses. To be allowed to work as a Registered Nurse, one must complete a nursing program at one of several educational levels, including associate and bachelor degree programs, hospital-based diploma programs and master's degree programs. Licensed practical nurses complete a state-approved one-year program.