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Best Nursing Homes in Fort Smith, AR

Why trust this guide? Our editorial team analyzed 9 nursing homes in Fort Smith, AR using Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) data, inspection records, complaints, amenities, and facility-level details. How we rank nursing homes in AR
Reviewed by
Last updated
Jun 2026
We analyzed
9 homes
Other senior care options in Fort Smith:
Avg Overall CMS Rating: 3.0/ 5The average Overall CMS Rating for all CMS-certified nursing homes in Fort Smith, AR. Ratings combine health inspections, staffing, and quality measures, with inspections weighted most. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average: 3.2/ 5
Avg Staffing Rating: 3.3/ 5The average Staffing Rating across all CMS-certified nursing homes in Fort Smith, AR. Reflects nursing staff hours per resident per day (including RNs), adjusted for residents' care needs. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average: 3.4/ 5
Avg Health Insp. Rating: 2.8/ 5The average Health Inspection Rating across all CMS-certified nursing homes in Fort Smith, AR. Based on each facility's recent inspections and complaint investigations, weighing the number, scope, and severity of deficiencies. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average: 3.0/ 5

Compare Nursing Homes around Fort Smith (Metro Area)

The information below is reported by the Arkansas Department of Human Services, Office of Long Term Care.

6 facilities compared · CMS & AR Dept. of Health data

Legacy Health And Rehabilitation Center
NH
MC
Fort Smith
115
Facility 115
AR AVG 84
Rank #83 / 330
82.6% +16%4.79 +47%+3%$0394.92107A+
40
Facility 40
AR AVG 34
Rank #159 / 419
Northport Health Services Of Arkansas, L.l.c.$10.9M$4.9M44.5%45267
Fianna Hills Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
NH
HC
MC
RC
Fort Smith
102
Facility 102
AR AVG 84
Rank #125 / 330
85.3% +20%4.84 -30%+4%$02010.0-95A+
73
Facility 73
AR AVG 34
Rank #12 / 419
Rhs Nursing, LLC$11.5M$4.4M38.1%45354
The Blossoms at Fort Smith Rehab & Nursing Center
NH
MC
NC
PC
RC
Fort Smith (Mill Creek)
130
Facility 130
AR AVG 84
Rank #47 / 330
82.3% +15%3.88 -17%-17%$0373.71118-
34
Facility 34
AR AVG 34
Rank #203 / 419
Brandon Brown$11.7M$4.5M38.9%45345
Covington Court Health And Rehabilitation Center
NH
PC
Fort Smith
140
Facility 140
AR AVG 84
Rank #17 / 330
69.3% -3%5.17 +30%+11%$12.2k375.3197-
39
Facility 39
AR AVG 34
Rank #165 / 419
Dow Wilson$14.6M$7.0M47.9%45363
Arbor Oaks Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center
NH
RC
Malvern
94
Facility 94
AR AVG 84
Rank #154 / 330
52.9% -26%4.11 -50%-12%$8.0k204.0167-
5
Facility 5
AR AVG 34
Rank #369 / 419
James Towers$6.8M$3.0M43.7%45270
Chapel Ridge Health and Rehab
NH
Fort Smith
84
Facility 84
AR AVG 84
Rank #176 / 330
96.4% +35%5.51 -43%+18%$0204.0-69A+
6
Facility 6
AR AVG 34
Rank #363 / 419
Jennifer Williams$9.3M$4.4M47.3%45364
Overview of Legacy Health and Rehabilitation Center

Legacy Health and Rehabilitation Center provides a compassionate and inviting setting for residents in need of skilled nursing care in Fort Smith, Arkansas. With a team of dedicated professionals including trained nurses, certified nurses’ aides, and therapists, this assisted living community ensures that each resident receives personalized attention and support.
The facility boasts beautifully decorated common areas that create a warm and welcoming ambiance and residents can enjoy the outdoor courtyards. Moreover, there are also opportunities to participate in daily activities that promote engagement and an active lifestyle. Residents can take advantage of additional services such as beautician services and laundry assistance. Each room is equipped with cable television and complimentary Wi-Fi, ensuring connectivity and entertainment. Mealtimes are a delightful experience as residents have the option to dine in the comfort of their own room or in the restaurant-style dining area. Legacy Health and Rehabilitation Center is dedicated to providing exceptional care and a supportive environment that promotes the well-being and quality of life for all residents.

Contact Legacy Health And Rehabilitation Center

Overview of Fianna Hills Nursing & Rehabilitation

Fianna Hills Nursing & Rehabilitation offers an exceptional home for seniors that goes beyond traditional nursing care. With their innovative approach and unwavering commitment to excellence, they provide a comprehensive range of services tailored to meet the unique needs of each resident. From skilled nursing and rehabilitation to a vibrant array of nursing home activities, they ensure that residents can lead fulfilling lives in a supportive and caring environment. With a team of highly trained and professional staff, they not only meet the nursing home requirements but also create an atmosphere of warmth and compassion.
From stimulating exercises to interactive games and group discussions, residents can actively participate in a variety of enriching experiences. These activities foster a sense of community, encourage social interaction, and promote overall well-being. Whether it’s engaging in crafts, enjoying musical performances, or participating in educational programs, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. From proper staffing levels to comprehensive care plans and adherence to strict protocols, every aspect of their operations is designed to meet and exceed regulatory requirements.

Contact Fianna Hills Nursing & Rehabilitation

Overview of Fianna Hills Nursing and Rehabilitation Center

Serving residents needing short-term rehabilitation or longer-term nursing care, Fianna Hills Nursing and Rehabilitation Center is a 102-bed skilled nursing home in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Operated by KMJ Enterprises Fianna Hills, LLC and owned by Rhs Nursing, the center has been operating for 27 years with an 85 percent occupancy rate and a typical stay duration of 59 days. Accepted are Medicare, Medicaid, and private pay, opening care access to families with different coverage options.

With steadfast short-term rehab and respite care programs, the home focuses on rehabilitation and restorative care, alongside its core nursing services. All-day staffing supports residents 24/7, with about 4 hours and 51 minutes of total nursing care provided per resident day. That foundation lets the center manage acute post-hospital recovery and ongoing skilled care needs within the same community. The community is well-situated on South 28th Street, rating a Walk Score of 73, meaning most errands can be completed on foot. The neighborhood offers reasonable walkability for visiting family members. Semi-private room options exist, with therapy and hospice services delivered on-site to support care continuity.

State inspections have detected operational themes around environmental controls, sanitation, and facility management practices, along with documentation accuracy in care planning and infection control protocols. Families can explore such areas amid a tour to get familiarized with how the home manages everyday operations and quality assurance.

Contact Fianna Hills Nursing and Rehabilitation Center

Overview of Lexington Place Healthcare and Rehabilitation

Located in Jonesboro, Arkansas, within Craighead County, Lexington Place Healthcare and Rehabilitation is dedicated to providing top-notch care and therapies to promote a swift and successful recovery. Their team of skilled nurses, therapists, and licensed care professionals is committed to guiding individuals through personalized therapy plans, empowering them to regain their independence. Whether recovering from a hospital visit or seeking ongoing medical support, this assisted living community is devoted to helping residents achieve optimal health.
Residents can expect a compassionate and supportive environment where their well-being is the top priority. With a wide range of therapies and care services available, individuals can rest assured that their journey to recovery will be met with expert guidance and a focus on achieving optimal outcomes.

Contact Lexington Place Healthcare And Rehabilitation

Overview of The Blossoms at Fort Smith Rehab & Nursing Center

The Blossoms at Fort Smith Rehab & Nursing Center, nestled in the vibrant city of Fort Smith, is a place that truly stands out. With their unwavering commitment to excellence in nursing home care, this haven creates a nurturing environment where residents’ well-being is always the top priority. The dedicated staff takes a patient-centered approach, ensuring that each individual receives the personalized attention they deserve. The result is a premier community that sets the standard for exceptional care.
At The Blossoms, residents have a plethora of opportunities to engage in recreational activities that bring joy and entertainment to their days. From delightful movie nights to thrilling bingo evenings and captivating musical performances, there’s always something exciting happening. And let’s not forget about the exquisite gourmet-style meals that are served daily, prepared with care and expertise. With a registered dietitian overseeing the culinary offerings, residents can savor delicious and nutritious dishes that cater to their individual needs. For those looking to stay active and fit, a spacious gym equipped with state-of-the-art equipment awaits. The Blossoms truly leaves no stone unturned when it comes to providing a comprehensive and enriching living experience.

Contact The Blossoms at Fort Smith Rehab & Nursing Center

Overview of Covington Court Health and Rehabilitation Center

Located in Fort Smith, Arkansas, Covington Court Health and Rehabilitation Center is a caring, home-like environment with the added bonus of professionally trained nurses, certified nurses’ aides, and therapists. At our facility, you will not only find a commitment to quality but also a professional and caring staff. Beautifully decorated and pleasant common areas create a warm and welcoming environment. The Pavilion allows for easy access for loved ones to visit.
We offer private and semi-private suites with upscale bathrooms. Each resident room has cable television and complimentary Wi-Fi. Our facility offers beautician services and laundry services so residents always feel and look their best. During meals, residents can dine in the comfort of their room or in our restaurant style dining area surrounded by friends.

Contact Covington Court Health And Rehabilitation Center

Overview of Arbor Oaks Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center

A nursing home in Malvern, Arkansas, which is owned by James Towers, Arbor Oaks Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center takes Medicare, Medicaid, and private pay, making it accessible to families using different coverage routes for short-term rehabilitation and longer-term skilled nursing care.

The facility spotlights rehabilitation services, supplying short-term rehab, respite care, and ongoing nursing support. With a doctor on staff and 24-hour staffing, residents get continuous clinical oversight. Total nursing care averages 4 hours and 7 minutes per resident day, distributed across registered nurses, nurse aides, and licensed vocational nurses, indicating a systematized method to hands-on care. The average stay duration runs about 179 days, signaling a mix of post-acute rehab residents and those in longer-term placement. This timeline suggests a usual trajectory for someone recuperating from hospitalization or handling an ongoing nursing need. Arbor Oaks Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center operates under the Life With Us program. Its location in Malvern has a Walk Score of 5, so the place is car-dependent, with a majority of errands requiring a car, which may be informational for visiting family members doing regular trips to the facility.

Contact Arbor Oaks Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center

Overview of Brownwood Life Care Center, INC.

Operated by Brownwood Life Care Center, Inc., Brownwood Life Care Center is a 50-bed nursing home on Wells Lake Road in Fort Smith, Arkansas. For residents recuperating from illness or injury, the home provides nursing care and offers rehabilitation services. Families will want to plan for easy driving access when visiting the car-dependent setting.

The community highlights engagement through community activities. Residents join outings and special events throughout Fort Smith and the surrounding area, including trips to the mall, the state fair, and concerts. Such activities supply entertainment and opportunities for residents to stay connected to the wider community.

An in-person tour by families considering Brownwood Life Care Center is the best way to learn about the available care services, daily programming, and residential accommodations.

Contact Brownwood Life Care Center, Inc.

Overview of Chapel Ridge Health and Rehab

Chapel Ridge Health and Rehab is an 84-bed nursing home in Fort Smith, Arkansas, offering long-term care, short-term rehabilitation, respite care, and memory care. The facility is privately owned and operated by Jennifer Williams and accepts Medicare, Medicaid, and private pay. Chapel Ridge holds a 4-star CMS overall rating, 27% above the Arkansas average. Quality Measures are the strongest sub-category — 35.1% above the state benchmark — reflecting performance on clinical outcomes including hospital readmissions and mobility improvement. Nurse staffing averages 5 hours and 31 minutes per resident per day, ranking 23rd out of 182 Arkansas SNFs, though that figure is 7.7% below the state average. Across five inspections over roughly four years, the facility recorded 21 deficiencies at a rate of 5.3 per year, just 2% above the Arkansas average of 5.2. Two complaint investigations in early 2023 were substantiated: one involving a wheelchair fall with injury and another involving a CNA performing a mechanical-lift transfer alone, causing a fall and a head laceration that required hospital treatment. No fines or Immediate Jeopardy findings appear in the record. The facility’s occupancy rate is 96% — well above the Arkansas average of 71.3% — signaling consistent demand. Amenities include scenic sunrooms, a spa room, a beauty shop, and an on-site medical specialist. Chapel Ridge’s rehabilitation services, memory care capacity, and high long-term occupancy make it best suited for residents seeking either post-acute recovery or ongoing skilled nursing care in Sebastian County.

Contact Chapel Ridge Health and Rehab

Ranking Methodology

How we rank these nursing homes

Every nursing home above is evaluated across five weighted categories using CMS data including Care Compare, Payroll-Based Journal, and Medicare Cost Reports.

  • CMS data
  • 5 weighted categories
  • Updated quarterly
Full methodology

Weighting overview

  • 35%
    Care Quality
  • 20%
    Staffing
  • 20%
    Regulatory
  • 20%
    Operational
  • 5%
    Environment
01

Care Quality 35%

The largest single share of every ranking. CMS star ratings and quality measures that reflect actual care delivered to residents.

  • Includes
  • Overall Rating
  • Health Inspection
  • QM Rating
  • Long-Stay QM
  • Short-Stay QM
02

Staffing Adequacy 20%

The strongest predictor of resident outcomes. Volume and stability of nursing care, drawn from CMS Payroll-Based Journal.

  • Includes
  • Nurse Hrs/Res/Day
  • RN vs State
  • Total Nurse Staff Hrs vs State
  • RN Turnover
03

Regulatory & Safety Record 20%

Inspection patterns that star ratings can mask. We weight per-inspection rates more heavily than raw counts.

  • Includes
  • Citations
  • Citations/Inspection
  • Severe Citations
  • Fines
  • Accreditations
04

Operational & Financial Stability 20%

Stable operations and sound finances are leading indicators of consistent care over time.

  • Includes
  • Occupancy vs State
  • Avg Length of Stay
  • Revenue
  • Payroll %
  • Years in Operation
  • Admin Tenure
05

Environment & Accessibility 5%

Context that matters to families but doesn't directly measure clinical care. Weighted lower for nursing homes than for assisted or independent living.

  • Includes
  • Walk Score
  • BBB Rating
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Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Homes in Fort Smith, AR

What's the difference between assisted living and a nursing home in Arkansas?

Assisted living in Arkansas is a residential model focused on housing, hospitality, and help with daily activities. Nursing homes (skilled nursing facilities) provide 24/7 medical care from licensed nurses for residents with significant health needs, and are regulated more strictly under both state and federal CMS rules.

Does Arkansas Medicaid cover nursing home care?

Yes — Arkansas Medicaid covers nursing home care for residents who meet income, asset, and medical-need eligibility requirements. Most CMS-certified nursing homes accept Medicaid as a primary payer once long-term-care eligibility is established.

What is nursing home care?

Nursing homes (also called skilled nursing facilities) provide 24/7 medical care from licensed nurses, rehabilitation services, and long-term custodial care for residents with significant health or functional needs.

How many nursing homes are listed on this page?

This page features 9 nursing homes in Fort Smith, AR. Use the filters and comparison tools above to compare ratings, amenities, and pricing.

How do I choose the right nursing home in Fort Smith, AR?

Start by matching the level of care offered to the resident's current and anticipated needs, then compare licensing status, staff-to-resident ratios, recent inspection results, and pricing. Tour at least two or three communities in Fort Smith, AR, talk to current residents and families, and confirm what is included in the base rate versus billed as add-on services.

What should I look for when visiting nursing homes in Fort Smith, AR?

Pay attention to staff interactions with residents, cleanliness and odor, food quality at meal times, the activity calendar, and how questions about pricing and care plans are answered. Ask to see the most recent state inspection report, the move-out / level-of-care-change policy, and a sample monthly bill that lists every fee.