The Power of Choice in Rehabilitation.
Did you know you can choose where you recover for short-term rehabilitation and skilled nursing?
Recovering from surgery, an injury or a medical event isn’t exactly a vacation—but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have some say in where you spend your time healing. But here’s the catch: not all rehabilitation locations are created equal. Some offer private rooms, while others have shared spaces. Some feel like high-end resorts, while others…don’t. The point is, this is your recovery, and you have a choice. So, the team at Lutheran Life Communities is here to empower your right to choose the best option for you.
The Power of Choice: Know Your Options
When it comes time to leave the hospital at discharge, know that you don’t have to take the first recommendation offered by your case worker. Hospital staff will often provide a list of communities, but that list is often based on affiliation, and not necessarily on quality of care or your personal preferences. In other words, it is just a starting point—not a rule book. Whether you prefer a home base with gourmet meals and a spa-like atmosphere, or a cozier community feel, the decision is yours.
Tip: If you know the date of a planned surgery, you can also book ahead for your recovery period. Reach out to the rehabilitation center of your choice and see if they will reserve you a spot. Even better: Ask for a tour before your stay.
That being said, we don’t have the luxury of preparation in cases of unexpected hospitalization. That is why it is critical to do your research ahead of time and keep track of your preferred rehabilitation community should you ever need it. We recommend that all individuals over 65 years of age be informed about the options available to them in this scenario. It may feel earlier than necessary—but that’s the point! Our Lutheran Life Communities team is always available to help begin this process as experts of this process.
Not All Skilled Nursing Communities Are the Same
Would you rather recover in a setting that feels warm and inviting or one that feels…well, institutional? Some skilled nursing communities offer private rooms with spacious layouts, while others primarily have semi-private rooms. Some boast chef-inspired meals and engaging activities, while others keep things more basic.
Lutheran Life Communities are designed to make you feel at home and well cared for, while having access to an entire community of amenities and experiences just steps away.
Here’s where doing a little homework pays off. Check out online ratings, visit the community if possible and ask about services. Think about what will make your recovery comfortable, enjoyable and stress-free. Because let’s be honest—recovering is hard enough without bad food, an uninspiring atmosphere or a roommate who snores like a freight train.
At Lutheran Home, physical, occupational, speech, lymphedema and respiratory therapy is available seven days a week, where residents receive the continuous support they need to recover quickly and safely. When weather permits, outdoor therapy options are available in a sunny therapy courtyard with stairs and uneven walking paths, providing real-world exercise to help you confidently return to daily routines. Additionally, the MyVitality program offers engaging intellectual and physical activities such as yoga, tai chi, art classes and musical performances to support holistic wellness.
Final Word: Be Your Own Advocate
Most people don’t know they have options when it comes to their recovery. When the time comes to choose where you’ll heal, speak up. You deserve a home base that prioritizes your well-being and makes your healing journey as smooth as possible. After all, this is your recovery.
If you’re in the Chicago area, Lutheran Home offers the best skilled nursing and short-term rehabilitation in an upscale, residential setting. With Jenny’s Bistro, landscaped courtyards and outdoor therapy options, many people report feeling better just by being there. Learn more about our five-star rated community here or call (224) 312-3003.
