How Long is the Average Stay of a Nursing Home Resident?

Nursing homes play a vital role in providing long-term care for elderly and disabled individuals who require assistance with daily activities and medical supervision.

The Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) report, “Total Number of Residents in Certified Nursing Facilities” (July 2022), states that approximately 1.2 million people in the US live in more than 15,000 certified nursing homes.

For many families, deciding to transition a loved one to an assisted living facility is a significant decision often accompanied by questions about the duration of stay. Understanding how long is the average stay of a nursing home resident can provide valuable insights for individuals and families navigating long-term care options.

Factors Influencing Length of Stay

Several factors influence the length of time a resident stays in a nursing home, ranging from health status and level of care needs to personal preferences and family support.

Here are some key reasons to consider:

• Health Status and Care Needs The main factor that determines a resident’s length of stay is their health status and care needs. Residents with chronic medical conditions or disabilities that require ongoing care and supervision may have longer stays compared to those who are relatively healthier and more independent.
• Rehabilitation and Recovery Some residents enter nursing homes for short-term rehabilitation following surgery, illness, or injury. Their length of stay may be shorter compared to those who require long-term custodial care. Rehabilitation programs aim to restore function and independence, enabling residents to return home or transition to lower levels of care.
• End-of-Life Care For residents with advanced illness or terminal conditions, nursing homes may provide palliative or hospice care. These individuals typically have shorter stays as they receive comfort-focused care to manage symptoms and maintain quality of life in their final days.
• Personal Circumstances and Preferences Personal circumstances and preferences also play a role in determining the length of a resident’s stay. Some individuals may choose to reside in nursing homes permanently, while others may have specific goals, such as regaining independence or transitioning back to their home environment.

Average Length of Stay

While there is no definitive answer to how long the average nursing home resident stays, research provides insights into typical lengths of stay based on various factors.

Here are some findings:

Short-Term Rehabilitation

The average length of stay in a nursing home for rehabilitation purposes can range from a few weeks to three months, depending on the nature of their rehabilitation goals and progress, with some individuals requiring extended stays for complex medical needs.

Long-Term Care

Residents who require long-term custodial care may stay in nursing homes for several years or even indefinitely. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the median length of stay for facility residents aged 65 and older is approximately 671 days or about 22 months.

Again, individual lengths of stay vary widely based on factors such as health status, care needs, and personal circumstances.

Factors Affecting Length of Stay

Several factors contribute to the wide variability in residents’ lengths of stay:

• Health Status and Care Needs. Residents with complex medical conditions or disabilities that require extensive care and supervision may have longer stays compared to those with fewer care needs. Chronic conditions, cognitive impairment, and functional limitations can influence the duration of stay.
• Family Support. Family involvement and support play a significant role in determining residents’ lengths of stay. Residents with strong family support systems may have more options for transitioning to home or community-based care, while those without adequate support may remain in nursing homes for longer periods.
• Availability of Alternative Care Settings. The availability and accessibility of alternative care settings, such as assisted living facilities, home health services, and community-based programs, can impact residents’ lengths of stay. Individuals who have access to supportive services outside of these facilities may choose to transition to these settings sooner.
• Financial Considerations. Financial factors, including Medicaid eligibility, long-term care insurance coverage, and personal resources, can influence residents’ lengths of stay. (Of the $597.6 billion in federal and state Medicaid spending in 2020, more than 30% was on long-term care services, according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.) Financial constraints may limit options for alternative care settings or impact residents’ ability to afford long-term care.

The average length of stay for a nursing home resident really comes down to individual circumstances, care needs, and preferences.

While some residents may stay for short-term rehabilitation, others may require long-term custodial care or end-of-life support. Understanding the factors influencing length of stay can help individuals and families make informed decisions about long-term care options and plan effectively for the future.

Whether seeking short-term rehabilitation or permanent residency, these facilities play a crucial role in providing compassionate care and support for residents in need.

If you or a loved one have questions about nursing home laws in your state or the legal rights of residents, an experienced nursing home abuse attorney can help you find the answer.