The Subacute at Autumn Lake Healthcare typically takes anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on factors such as the type of condition being treated, the patient’s overall health, and their response to therapy. To provide a more accurate timeline, it’s essential to consider individual needs, the goal of recovery, and the level of care required during the rehabilitation process.
What is Subacute Rehabilitation?
We are designed for patients who need more intensive medical and therapeutic care than what is provided in a traditional nursing home, but do not require the acute care delivered in a hospital setting. It focuses on helping patients recover after serious illnesses, surgeries, or injuries that require more extensive rehabilitation.
This type of care is especially beneficial for those who need a structured program of physical, occupational, or speech therapy to regain the ability to perform daily activities. It also provides around-the-clock nursing care, ensuring that patients’ health needs are managed as they work toward recovery.
In our case, patients at our facility benefit from a well-rounded program that combines physical therapy with expert nursing care, all while recovering in a safe and comfortable environment.
What Affects the Length of Subacute Rehabilitation?
Several key factors influence the length of subacute rehabilitation:
Type of Condition or Injury
The condition that led to subacute care is one of the most significant factors affecting recovery time. For example:
- Orthopedic injuries (like fractures or joint replacements) generally require shorter stays in subacute care, often around 3-6 weeks.
- Neurological conditions (such as stroke or traumatic brain injury) may require a more extended rehabilitation period, potentially up to 2-3 months.
- Cardiac recovery after a heart attack or surgery may also vary, but generally requires a couple of months of rehabilitation to regain strength.
Each condition has its own rehabilitation goals, which affect the length of time it takes for patients to reach their milestones.
Age and General Health
Younger and healthier patients tend to recover faster, while older adults or those with multiple underlying health conditions may need a longer period of rehab. This is something that our team at the subacute care in Voorhees understands well. We customize rehabilitation plans to account for each patient’s unique health profile, ensuring that recovery times are optimized.
Intensity and Type of Therapy
The types of therapies involved also play a role. For example, some patients may need intensive physical therapy daily, while others may need a more moderate schedule. The more frequently patients receive therapy, the faster they are likely to recover.
Patient Motivation and Compliance
Patient involvement in the rehabilitation process can significantly speed up recovery. Patients who stay motivated, participate actively in their treatment plans, and follow the therapist’s instructions are likely to experience faster healing. That’s why our team at the rehabilitation center in Voorhees, NJ, emphasizes a collaborative approach, working alongside patients to encourage and support them through their recovery journey.
Average Length of Stay in Subacute Rehabilitation
While recovery times can vary, here’s an overview of typical lengths of stay based on common conditions:
- Post-Surgery Recovery: If you’ve undergone a joint replacement or surgery, most patients will spend around 3 to 6 weeks in subacute rehab. For example, knee or hip replacements usually fall into this category.
- Stroke Recovery: After a stroke, patients may require a longer rehabilitation period. Most patients stay for 4-8 weeks in subacute care to regain mobility, speech, and independence.
- Neurological Conditions: Conditions such as Parkinson’s disease or traumatic brain injuries may require up to 2-3 months of intensive therapy to make a full recovery.
At our Voorhees subacute rehab, we work closely with each patient to develop a personalized recovery timeline and ensure they’re making measurable progress each week.
What Happens After Subacute Rehabilitation?
Once patients reach their rehabilitation goals and are medically stable, they may transition to a different level of care. This could include:
- Home Care: Many patients are ready to return home but may need occasional visits from a home health nurse or physical therapist.
- Assisted Living: For patients who are no longer able to live independently, assisted living may be the best option. This includes support with daily activities like dressing, bathing, and meal preparation.
We understand that each patient’s journey doesn’t end at discharge. That’s why we offer guidance to ensure patients transition smoothly, whether that’s into independent living or assisted living in Voorhees, NJ.
Can Subacute Rehabilitation Be Shortened?
In some cases, it’s possible to shorten the length of a stay in subacute rehabilitation, but this depends on several factors:

Active Participation
Patients who actively engage in their therapy sessions, stay motivated, and follow their care plan tend to recover faster. It’s essential for patients to keep a positive attitude and consistently attend therapy sessions.
Effective Therapies
Some therapies are more effective than others, depending on the condition. For instance, patients who respond well to certain physical therapy techniques may see quicker results, while others may require additional interventions to address issues like pain management or muscle weakness.
Specialized Treatment
At Voorhees subacute, we utilize specialized treatments like occupational therapy, speech therapy, and tailored physical therapy programs that can accelerate recovery for certain patients. By utilizing a holistic approach to rehab, we can ensure patients receive the best possible care to shorten their recovery time.
How to Support Your Loved One’s Recovery
While your loved one is undergoing subacute care, there are several things you can do to support them:
- Stay Involved: Visit frequently and encourage them to participate in their therapy sessions. Support and motivation from family members can make a significant difference in a patient’s progress.
- Encourage Physical Activity: Depending on their condition, encourage your loved one to participate in any activities that promote mobility, such as walking or simple stretches.
- Follow Care Instructions: Help your loved one follow the care plan, including taking medications on time and performing at-home exercises suggested by therapists.
We’re dedicated to providing personalized support for every patient and their family, ensuring a smooth and successful recovery process.
Frequently Asked Question
- What conditions can benefit from subacute rehabilitation?
- Subacute rehabilitation can help with conditions such as joint replacements, strokes, cardiac recovery, and neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease.
- How long should someone stay in subacute care?
- The length of stay depends on the condition and the patient’s progress, typically ranging from 3 weeks to 3 months.
- Does Medicare cover subacute rehabilitation?
- Yes, Medicare covers subacute rehabilitation for qualifying patients, but there are certain requirements, such as a 3-day hospital stay.
- Can subacute rehabilitation be shortened?
- Recovery times can be shortened with active patient participation, effective therapy, and following care instructions.
- When is it time to transition out of subacute rehabilitation?
- Patients transition out of subacute care when they meet their rehabilitation goals and are medically stable enough to continue recovery at home or in another care setting like assisted living.
To Sum Up
If you or a loved one is considering recovery care or needs specialized rehabilitation, the team at The Subacute at Autumn Lake Healthcare is here to guide you through every step of the process. Whether you’re recovering from surgery, illness, or injury, we offer a comprehensive program that caters to your specific needs and ensures the best possible outcomes.
Are you or a loved one in need of expert subacute rehabilitation? Contact us today to schedule a tour or learn more about our services. Our compassionate team is ready to help you on the path to recovery!






