Many feel that acute inpatient rehabilitation (AIR) and a nursing home are the same, however they are quite different. Many patients receiving care at an AIR have had an illness that requires intensive rehabilitation to recover as much mobility as possible. It requires therapy throughout the day with a variety of therapists.

What to expect at acute inpatient rehabilitation:

• Daily coverage by a medical doctor
• Specialized rehabilitation nursing
• Intense therapy services
• Physical therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Speech therapy
• Social worker (if needed)
• Case manager
• Every patient receives three hours of therapy per day

Admission to a rehabilitation facility will include an array of assessments to determine the plan for recovery. Exercises introduced at the rehabilitation facility will need to continue at home or outpatient rehabilitation may be prescribed.

Upon release there may still be a need for at-home assistance with cooking, cleaning, bathing or dressing. (See Private Duty Home Care.)