South Dakota nursing homes and skilled nursing directory

Nursing Homes in South Dakota

For seniors incapable of meeting their self-care needs, nursing homes can be a great option for families to pursue. Nursing homes or skilled nursing communities in South Dakota provide assistance to help you or your elderly loved one with daily activities, medication management, and wellness overall. With upwards of 113 South Dakota nursing homes and skilled nursing locations to choose from, you’re sure to find an option that best fits your needs.

Skilled Nursing Care in South Dakota – Cost Comparison

City	Monthly Minimum	Monthly Maximum	Monthly Median
Rapid City	$6,115	$8,365	$4,505
Sioux Falls	$4,960	$6,360	$5,660

Nursing home care is rarely an inexpensive investment for many families. The median annual cost of a private room in South Dakota is $77,380 with semi-private rooms costing about $72,770. These figures are less then the national average costs for skilled nursing care. There are many nursing homes and skilled nursing communities located in South Dakota, so shopping around can help to find the right price and home for your situation.

For more information about nursing home care costs in South Dakota, check out Genworth’s 2015 Cost of Care Survey.

Recreation & Attractions in South Dakota

South Dakota is home to the Mount Rushmore National Monument, which is one of the most prominent tourist attractions in the nation. Come see the heads of some of our greatest presidents carved into the side of a mountain.

Badlands National Park is made up of uniquely formed hills and pinnacles from eroded clay and sand. Known for a large bison herd that roams freely in the park, the strange landscape is a stunning view and one of South Dakota’s most visited destinations.

For those who may be less mobile, senior centers can also be a great outlet to stay active, learn new things, and make friends. Many centers provide transportation and meals, so you’ll be sure to feel at home.

South Dakota’s Climate, Geography, & Culture

Much like North Dakota, South Dakota has a rich history of Native American cultures. The state has many Native American reservations and important archaeological sites. The state has a population of less than 1 million people, so there are few cities and smaller rural towns. The main industry in South Dakota is agriculture and this has a heavy influence on society.

South Dakota has four distinct seasons with cold, dry winters and hot and semi-humid summers. Because of the state’s inland location, extreme temperatures are common. During the summer, the average high temperature is near 90 degrees. The winter months bring high temperatures averaging in the 20-degree range. The state receives about 15 inches of precipitation, annually, in the northwestern part of the state and around 25 inches in the southeastern part of the state.

South Dakota’s Skilled Nursing Care Regulations & Laws

Nursing homes must be licensed from the South Dakota Department of Health, Office of Health Care Facilities Licensure and Certification. Homes are inspected at least once a year to make sure that they are complying with state standards. Nursing homes are required to provide clean and safe facilities, keep a required amount of staff, and provide training and ongoing education for staff members. In order for a nursing administrator to get a license, they must have a degree from a university, a minimum of 240 hours of work as an administrator-in-training, and pass the nursing facility administrator exam.

Crime & Safety in South Dakota

Crime in South Dakota is lower than the national average. Even the crimes per square mile are half the national average, so it’s likely you or your elderly loved one will be successful in finding a safe place for any long-term care option. If you are not sure where to start your search, below are some of the safest cities in the state:

Location	Violent Crimes Per 1,000 Residents	Property Crimes Per 1,000 Residents
Brandon	0.10	2.58
Lennox	0.44	3.80
Hot Springs	0.86	6.90
Canton	1.51	6.93

(Source: safewise.com)

Payment Options for South Dakota Nursing Homes

Skilled nursing communities and nursing homes in South Dakota can be quite expensive for most families to pay out of pocket. Since Medicare and private insurance policies rarely cover long-term care options, many turn to Medicaid for assistance. In order to qualify in South Dakota, applicants must make no more than $2,163 a month and have less than $2,000 in countable assets. Additionally, nursing home care must be deemed medically necessary in order to retain coverage. Since every state is different it is wise to read up on the specifics and how they apply.

Senior & Elderly Rights for Skilled Nursing Care in SD

Entering a South Dakota nursing home doesn’t mean your rights as an American citizen are left behind. The Constitution and Bill of Rights guarantee that your freedoms, privacy, and ability to act autonomously are preserved while receiving care. Residents have the right to manage their personal and financial affairs and air grievances. If these rights are violated, don’t hesitate to contact a legal advisor familiar in senior law.

SD Nursing Homes: Medical Record Rules & Regulations

Residents receiving nursing home care or any other type of medical attention in South Dakota are entitled to a comprehensive and accurate record of their diagnosis and treatment. State and federal laws provide that residents have access to their records and health information, as well as the right to know when disclosures have been made. Otherwise, these records are to remain confidential for up to 7 years and can be accessed by submitting a request and providing a small fee.

Whether you’ve lived in South Dakota all your life or you’re considering a move to the Mount Rushmore State, rest assured that you’ll find the quality senior care option you want and need.