Category: Blog

Finding the right nursing home for a loved one can be overwhelming. The facility should offer skilled care, safety, a supportive environment, comfort, and stimulation. While Kirkland itself has few nursing homes, there are several excellent options in the parts of East King County that surround Kirkland. Here’s a guide to the top facilities to consider.

1. Life Care Center of Kirkland

Life Care Center, located in Kirkland, WA, is a skilled nursing facility in the city. The available services include long-term care, short-term rehabilitation, and memory support programs. This highly recognized care center merges medical services with social activities for keeping residents involved.

It is appropriate for seniors requiring long-term nursing care, post-acute rehab, or memory care. Being a 190-bed skilled nursing facility allows residents with a wide range of needs to be admitted. It is Medicare-certified. Washington Health Care Association as this is a skilled nursing facility, Medicare and sometimes other payers will cover some types of short-term stays following a hospital admission; check with the facility directly to confirm specifics.

Location: Life Care Center of Kirkland

10101 Northeast 120th Street
Kirkland, WA 98034

2. Redmond Care & Rehabilitation Center

Located not far from Kirkland (7900 Willows Road NE), this center serves as more than just a skilled nursing facility — it’s part of a broader senior living campus that includes independent and memory care. This center boasts a 5-star overall rating from Medicare as of 2024. That’s a strong signal of quality, especially in short-term rehab services.

Services Offered

• Around-the-Clock Skilled Nursing & Rehab
  Redmond Care provides 24/7 nursing supervision with on-site medical staff to ensure continuity of care for residents, personalized to their health needs rather than just basic medical support.
• Comprehensive In-House Therapy
  Residents have the availability of full-time physical, occupational, and speech therapists who engage directly with them in recovery goals. Each therapy plan-from neurological rehabilitation and balance training to wound care-is designed with the singular focus of maximizing
• Flexible Short-Term and Long-Term Care
  Whether recovering from surgery or hospitalization, or requiring ongoing support for chronic conditions, Redmond Care accommodates both short-term rehab and long-term residential needs with seamless transitions between services.
• Engaging Life-Enrichment Programs
  A varied calendar of activities helps keep the residents socially and mentally active. From creative arts and outings with the group to educational sessions and social gatherings, the activities are devised to promote community, purpose, and enjoyment.
• Personalized Care & Discharge Planning
  Our care team works closely with residents and families to establish personalized care plans, including comprehensive discharge strategies that ensure safe and confident transitions home or to the next level of care.

Who It Helps Most: Ideal for people recovering from surgery or illness who need short-term rehab, as well as those who require longer-term nursing care. The in-house therapy team (PT/OT) is a big part of its strength.

Location: 7900 Willows Road NE, Redmond, WA 98052

3. Bainbridge Island Health & Rehabilitation Center

Located Bainbridge Island, this modern care center sits centrally on Bainbridge Island — making it accessible to local families while offering a peaceful, close-to-home feel. The lush, landscaped grounds of the facility and community-oriented layout of the facility help residents stay connected to island life, with the facility being in proximity to nearby parks and local amenities.

Services Offered

• Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation: Skilled nursing care is provided on a 24-hour basis by professional and skilled staff who attend not only to the patients’ medical needs but also to personal well-being.
• In-House Therapy: A full-time, in-house therapy team (PT, OT, speech) collaborates to establish an individualized rehab plan.
• Short-Term & Long-Term Care: The center supports both short rehabilitation stays (with the goal of returning home) and long-term residential care.
• Memory / Cognitive Care: The Integrated Cognitive Program encompasses personalized and supportive care for patients suffering from Alzheimer’s or dementia by incorporating functional assessments along with personal life-history details to develop better care plans.
• Life-Enrichment & Activities: The residents enjoy a full monthly calendar of social and recreational activities that promote engagement and quality of life.

Community Impact: As one of the few SNFs on Bainbridge Island, it’s a vital resource for island seniors and families. Their activity calendar includes “excursions” and social programming, which supports social engagement and quality of life.

Location: 835 Madison Ave N, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110

4. Briarwood at Timber Ridge (Issaquah, WA)

Nestled into the beautiful Timber Ridge retirement community, Briarwood Health Center is located at 100 Timber Ridge Way NW, Issaquah, WA 98027. This scenic, resort style setting gives residents a calm, home-like feel while keeping them close to family and local amenities. Being part of a continuing-care community means residents enjoy seamless access to independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing-all under one roof.

Services Offered

• Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation: Nursing staff available 24/7 with customized care plans and in-house physical, occupational, and speech therapies to aid in recovery post-hospitalization.
• Short-Term & Long-Term Care: Supports both rehab stays and long-term residential care for those needing ongoing support.
• Memory Care: Offers structured programs for dementia / Alzheimer’s with specialized support and social engagement.
• Life-Enrichment Activities: A varied calendar of social, cultural, spiritual, and recreational activities that promote connection and well-being.
• Dining & Amenities: Private and semi-private suites, restaurant-style meals prepared by a culinary team, and friendly living spaces.

Medicare / Insurance: Accepts both Medicare and Medicaid.
Because it’s part of a continuing-care community (CCRC), residents can age in place, moving between levels of care while staying within a familiar environment. They also emphasize life enrichment, with social, cultural, and recreational activities for residents.

5. Issaquah Nursing & Rehabilitation Center

Nestled in Issaquah, WA, at 805 Front St S, the facility offers easy access for seniors to skilled nursing and rehabilitation services. Its location provides convenience for family members who can easily visit from the east side of Seattle, and the facility is specifically designed to be warm and community-based. Residents can enjoy nearby parks, shopping areas, and local amenities that help them stay engaged with their surroundings.

Services Offered

• Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation: 24/7 nursing staff with personalized care plans, plus physical, occupational, and speech therapy for post-hospitalization recovery or ongoing medical needs.
• Short-Term & Long-Term Care: Provides both post-hospital rehab and long-term residential care.
• Memory Care / Specialized Programs: Support for residents with dementia or cognitive impairments, including structured routines and social engagement activities.
• Life-Enrichment Activities: Social programs and activities designed to promote mental and emotional well-being.
• Discharge Planning & Social Services: Individualized planning to ensure smooth transitions back home or to another care setting.

Community Contribution: This facility provides dependable access to competent care for elderly individuals with complex medical needs or requiring rehabilitation, serving Issaquah and the east-side area. The size of this facility also makes it a significant contributor to the local infrastructure for long-term care.

Location: 805 Front St S, Issaquah, WA 9802

6. Queen Anne Healthcare (Seattle / North King County)

Located in the scenic Queen Anne neighborhood at 2717 Dexter Ave N, the facility offers residents beautiful views of the Fremont Cut canal and easy access for family visits. Its central location makes it a convenient choice for Seattle families while still offering a cozy, community feel. Being part of a well-established area means residents can enjoy nearby parks, walking paths, and local amenities that help them stay engaged with the world outside the facility.

Services Offered

• Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation: Nursing staff available 24/7, besides physical, occupational, and speech therapies for recovery after surgery, stroke, or any other medical needs.
• Short-Term & Long-Term Care: Provides both rehabilitation after hospitalization and long-term residential nursing care.
• Memory Care: Specialized dementia/Alzheimer’s care track with 24-hour staff, cognitive support, life-enrichment activities, and medication‑management support.
• Behavioral Health / Trauma-Informed Care: The facility has a trauma-informed care program and a specific contract with Harborview Medical Center for certain behavioral health admissions.
• Social Services / Discharge Planning: They work to build individualized discharge plans and support a “plan for success” when residents move back home.

Location: 2717 Dexter Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109

Payment, Insurance & Admission

• Accepts Medicare and Medicaid.
• Because it’s a skilled nursing facility, Medicare could cover some rehabilitative stays (depending on the situation).
• For long-term care or memory care, Medicaid may be especially relevant to many families.

7. Shoreline Health & Rehabilitation Center

Located at 2818 NE 145th St, Shoreline, WA, Shoreline Health & Rehabilitation Center provides services for both long-term residents and those rehabilitating from medical events. Located in north King County, it allows for easy access for family visits, while it fosters a community-oriented, homelike atmosphere. The nearby parks, walking paths, and recreational opportunities keep residents active and connected.

Services Offered

• Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation: 24/7 nursing staff with personalized care plans, plus physical, occupational, and speech therapy for recovery after surgery, illness, or stroke.
• Short-Term & Long-Term Care: Offers both rehabilitation after hospitalization and long-term residential nursing care.
• Memory Care: Specialized programs for dementia and Alzheimer’s care, including 24-hour supervision and cognitive support.
• Life-Enrichment Activities: Activities, social programs, and events to keep residents mentally and socially engaged.
• Discharge Planning & Social Services: This involves individualized planning to ensure a smooth transition to returning home if appropriate.

Payment, Insurance & Admission

• Accepts Medicare and Medicaid.
• Medicare may cover short-term rehabilitative stays.
• Long-term care may be supported through Medicaid for eligible families.

8. Richmond Beach Rehabilitation Center

Located at 19235 15th Ave NW, Shoreline, WA, Richmond Beach Rehab is part of the Avamere network. Its location provides a convenient option for families on the north side of Seattle while maintaining a comfortable, home-like environment for residents. The facility emphasizes connection and support for both residents and their families.

Services Offered

• Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation: 24/7 nursing care, plus in-house therapy services for physical, occupational, and speech needs.
• Short-Term & Long-Term Care: Supports both post-hospital recovery and ongoing residential care.
• Memory Care: Specialized care for residents with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
• Personalized Care Plans: Each resident receives an individualized plan tailored to their medical and social needs.
• Engagement & Social Programs: Activities and events to encourage social interaction and mental stimulation.

Payment, Insurance & Admission

• Medicare- and Medicaid-certified.
• Medicare may cover short-term rehab stays.
• Long-term care coverage may include Medicaid for qualified residents.

Location: 19235 15th Ave NW, Shoreline, WA 98177

9. Bothell Healthcare (Skilled Nursing)

Located in Bothell, WA, Bothell Health Care offers both short-term rehabilitation and long-term skilled nursing care on a peaceful, forested campus. Its natural surroundings create a calming environment for residents while remaining easily accessible to local families.

Services Offered

• Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation: 24/7 care with full medical support, including IV therapy, wound care, dementia care, and catheter management.
• Short-Term & Long-Term Care: Rehab programs for recovery and comprehensive long-term care services.
• Restorative Nursing: Programs designed to improve mobility, strength, and daily living skills.
• Memory Care: Specialized dementia and Alzheimer’s programs with structured daily routines.
• Family Support / Respite Care: Offers respite options for family caregivers needing temporary relief.

Payment, Insurance & Admission

• Accepts Medicare and Medicaid.
• Medicare may cover rehab after hospitalization.
• Medicaid may assist with long-term care costs for eligible residents.

Location: 707 228th St SW, Bothell, WA 98021

10. Covenant Living at the Shores (Skilled Nursing)

Located on Mercer Island, WA, Covenant Living at the Shores is part of a continuing-care retirement community (CCRC). Residents benefit from a scenic, peaceful environment and the ability to transition from independent living to skilled nursing care within the same community.

Services Offered

• Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation: 24/7 nursing care, including physical, occupational, and speech therapy.
• Long-Term Care & Respite: Supports long-term residents and offers short-term respite for families.
• Memory Care & Clinical Services: Dementia care, IV therapy, wound management, diabetes care, and pain management.
• Holistic Support: Access to dental, vision, audiology, podiatry, and nutrition services.
• Life-Enrichment Activities: Programs that focus on mind, body, and spirit, encouraging social engagement and well-being.

Payment, Insurance & Admission

• Medicare-certified for skilled nursing care.
• Long-term care insurance considered, with evaluations at admission.
• Some Medicare Advantage plans are accepted depending on coverage.

Location: 9150 Fortuna Drive, Mercer Island, WA 9804

Alternatives to Nursing Homes: In-Home Care

While skilled nursing facilities provide comprehensive care for seniors with complex medical needs, many families are choosing in-home care as an alternative. In-home care allows seniors to remain in the comfort of their own home while receiving professional support for daily living, personal care, and companionship.

Services Offered in-Home:

• Assistance with bathing, grooming, dressing, and toileting
• Medication reminders and monitoring
• Meal preparation and light housekeeping
• Mobility support and transportation
• Companionship and social engagement

Who Can Provide In-Home Care:

• Trained caregivers
• Home health aides (HHA)
• Certified nursing assistants (CNA)
• Specialized dementia or post-surgery caregivers

Who Benefits Most: Seniors who want to age in place, people recovering from surgery or illness, or those needing memory care in a familiar environment.

Payment Info: In-home care is generally private-pay, though some insurance or long-term care policies may cover certain services.

Choosing the right care option for a loved one is deeply personal. Nursing homes provide structured, medical-focused environments, while in-home care offers independence, familiarity, and one-on-one support. Families can weigh factors like medical needs, lifestyle, and budget to determine the best fit.

At A Place at Home – Kirkland, our trained caregivers provide compassionate in-home care, helping seniors stay safe, supported, and engaged in their own homes. Contact us today for a free consultation to explore how in-home care can complement or serve as an alternative to nursing home care.

 

With aging parents, even minor health events can mark turning points. The body becomes more fragile over time, and surgical recovery may take longer than it used to. Be it a joint replacement, a heart procedure, or an emergency operation, surgery for older adults can bring both physical and emotional challenges-for the patient and their family.

If your parent has recently undergone surgery at EvergreenHealth Medical Center, Overlake Medical Center, or Swedish Hospital – Redmond, you may wonder what happens after they go home. Being discharged from the hospital is a milestone; however, recovery truly begins at home and knowing what to expect can make all the difference.

Understanding Surgery and Recovery for Aging Parents

For an older adult, surgery is more than a medical event-it is a major life disruption. Recovery will be longer because of the naturally occurring changes of aging, which may include reduced muscle strength, delayed wound healing, or comorbid disease processes such as diabetes or arthritis.

Confusion after surgery could be a result of anesthesia, new medications, or changes in sleep and routine while in the hospital. Most people feel disoriented, anxious, or physically weak during the first few days after being discharged, and that’s normal.

In this case, if your parents are already discharged from EvergreenHealth Medical Center, a plan for post-operative care may already be developed. The plan would include actions related to physical therapy, management of medicines, and follow-up visits that are very important for their smooth transition to home.

Common Types of Surgeries and Recovery Needs for seniors

Every surgery has its own distinct road to recovery. Some of the most common surgeries for older adults in the Kirkland area include:

• Orthopedic surgeries: These include hip, knee, and shoulder replacements, which will necessitate assistance in mobility, therapy, and fall prevention.
• Cardiac procedures: These include pacemaker implants or bypass surgeries, which require close medication management and gentle activity.
• Abdominal surgeries include gallbladder or hernia repair, often requiring meal planning and wound monitoring.
• Eye surgeries – cataract or retinal procedures where rest, medication reminders, and safe mobility are key.

Each case is different, and you should always follow the instructions given to you by your physician for discharge. If your parent’s physician is on the staff at Overlake Medical Center or EvergreenHealth, they can frequently make arrangements with outpatient rehabilitation or home care partners to ensure continuity of care.

What doctors recommend after surgery

Before your parent is discharged, their care team will explain the next steps, which may include:

• Medication schedules and pain management guidelines
• Restrictions on mobility or lifting
• Physical or occupational therapy appointments
• Nutrition and hydration recommendations
• Signs of infection or complications to watch for

It is a good idea to have a written copy of this list of instructions and to ask questions before leaving the hospital. If at all possible, assign one family member to communicate between the doctors, pharmacies, and caregivers.

How to prepare your home in Kirkland for a safe recovery after surgery

Bringing your parent home from the hospital is a big step toward healing, but the home environment will, to a great degree, determine just how smooth the recovery goes. Simple adjustments in your space can make it safer, more comfortable, and easier to get around—not only during these first few weeks post-surgery but also thereafter.

Before your loved one returns home, take some time to prepare:

• Clean up clutter from pathways. Secure rugs and cords to prevent tripping and falling, especially in hallways and around the bathroom area.
• Make sure there is a comfortable place to rest on the main floor, preferably near a bathroom, so your parents can avoid going upstairs while recovering.
• Install grab bars and non-slip mats in the shower, near the toilet, and along high-traffic areas to improve stability.
• Keep essentials within easy reach—medications, water, a phone, tissues, and a TV remote should all be accessible from their resting spot.

Arrange for dependable transportation to follow-up appointments at local hospitals, such as EvergreenHealth Medical Center or Overlake Medical Center, so they never have to miss a vital visit.

If your parents require continued assistance with meals, bathing, medication reminders, or mobility, professional in-home care can make all the difference. At A Place At Home – Kirkland, our trained caregivers provide compassionate, personalized support to help seniors recover comfortably and safely in their own homes.

Caring for your parent after surgery

The first few weeks at home are about balance — rest, light movement, and emotional support. Encourage your parents to follow their doctor’s plan closely, attend all follow-up appointments, and maintain a positive outlook.

At this stage, caregivers can help with:

• Personal care and medication reminders
• Meal preparation and hydration
• Light mobility assistance and safety monitoring
• Transportation to therapy or medical check-ups
• Companionship and emotional encouragement

Even small acts of care — a reassuring word or a warm meal — can make recovery feel less stressful and more hopeful.

When Professional In-Home Care Can Help

Many families find that professional home care eases the pressure of post-surgery recovery. A trained caregiver from A Place At Home – Kirkland can ensure your loved one stays comfortable, safe, and supported 24/7 — while giving family caregivers time to rest and recharge.

Our team works closely with hospitals and rehabilitation centers like:

• EvergreenHealth Medical Center – Kirkland
• Overlake Medical Center – Bellevue
• Swedish Redmond Campus
• Virginia Mason Medical Center – Seattle

We provide seamless communication with your parent’s medical team, ensuring the care plan continues smoothly from hospital to home.