Page 14 of Best Nursing Homes in New York State

Overview of Pathways Nursing and Rehabilitation Center

Located on Providence Avenue in Niskayuna, New York, Pathways Nursing and Rehabilitation Center is a skilled nursing facility operated by Niskayuna Operating Company, LLC. The 110-bed facility accepts Medicare, Medicaid, and private pay, giving families multiple ways to cover both short-term rehabilitation and longer-term skilled nursing care. The community has an occupancy rate of 96%. Residents stay an average of 302 days, which is a mix of post-acute rehabilitation patients and those receiving longer-term care.

Rehabilitation is the facility’s primary focus. It has specialized programs for pediatric patients and residents recovering from traumatic brain injuries. These services make the center a practical choice for families looking for intensive therapy and specialized clinical care.

Daily nurse staffing averages 2 hours and 9 minutes per resident. Registered nurses provide 1 hour and 39 minutes of that care. Residents also get additional support from licensed practical nurses and nurse aides. Nursing staff is available 24 hours a day.

State inspections by the New York Department of Health have reviewed nursing documentation, staffing practices, and facility operations. The center has made timely improvements in identified areas, helping to sustain its clinical and operational standards.

The facility is located in a car-dependent area where most errands require a vehicle. Families considering post-acute rehabilitation or specialized long-term care for a loved one with neurological or pediatric needs should tour the facility to learn more about its therapy programs, daily nursing routines, and individualized care plans.

Overview of Island Nursing and Rehab Center

Owned by Audrey Marchand, Island Nursing and Rehab Center is a skilled nursing facility in Holtsville, New York. The home is operated by Island Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, Inc. Medicare, Medicaid, and private pay are accepted, giving families multiple pathways to cover short-term rehabilitation and longer stays. Operating at full occupancy with an average length of stay of 95 days, the 120-bed facility serves post-acute rehabilitation residents and those receiving ongoing skilled care.

The center focuses on short-term rehabilitation and recovery. It offers rehabilitation services, respite care, and specialized programs through a Social Adult Day Care and Medical Adult Day Program. Daily nursing support averages about 3 hours and 9 minutes per resident, including registered nurse care, nurse aide support, and LPN/LVN coverage. The level of hands-on staffing reflects a strong clinical approach to post-hospital care and recovery.

Department of Health inspections focused on medication and pharmacy management, care planning accuracy, and nursing competencies. Most deficiencies identified during inspections were isolated issues corrected within the required timeframes. There were no systemic concerns found in the facility’s overall care system.

The facility is located on Expressway Drive North in Holtsville, a car-dependent area with a Walk Score of 4. Visitors and staff should expect to drive for most errands and transportation needs.

Families seeking a nursing home centered on skilled rehabilitation and recovery, the facility’s intensive staffing model and adult day programs provide structured support for both short-term transition care and ongoing management.

Overview of Forest Hills Care Center

Operated by Forest Hills Care Center, LLC under owner Shaya Landa, Forest Hills Care Center is a 100-bed skilled nursing home in Forest Hills, Queens. The facility accepts Medicare, Medicaid, and private pay, giving families multiple ways to cover both short-term rehabilitation and ongoing skilled nursing care. The home has an occupancy rate of 90%. Residents stay an average of 96 days, which reflects a focus on post-acute rehabilitation and recovery.

Rehabilitation is the center’s primary focus. There are dedicated short-term rehabilitation services and a full range of therapy programs. Daily nurse staffing averages 3 hours and 29 minutes per resident, including 35 minutes of registered nurse care each day. The level of staffing supports residents recovering from surgery, hospitalization, or other acute medical conditions.

State inspections by the Department of Health have cited issues with infection prevention, care planning, medication management, resident rights, and environmental maintenance. These findings have appeared across multiple inspection cycles, and the facility has addressed them over time. Families touring the home should ask how these areas are monitored and managed daily.

Residents have access to an on-site hair salon, housekeeping, laundry and linen services, and engaging outdoor spaces. Meals are served in a large communal dining room for residents who keep kosher, as well as for residents who are seeking healthy, daily meal options. Outdoor spaces and activities are also available to promote cognitive, social, and emotional engagement.

The neighborhood has a Walk Score of 94, meaning it is very walkable. Family members visiting residents will find it easy to walk to nearby services and amenities, making frequent visits simple.

Overview of Long Beach Nursing and Rehabilitation Center

At 375 East Bay Drive in Long Beach, Nassau County, MLAP Acquisition I, LLC operates Long Beach Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, a 150-bed facility with 93% occupancy; notably higher than the state’s 88.3% average. The community blends short-term post-acute rehabilitation with longer-term Medicaid-funded care, reflecting a payer mix where 68% of current residents are Medicaid-covered.

Its 4-star CMS overall rating ranks 27% above the state average, with matching 4-star scores across health inspection, staffing, and quality measures. The facility has had 35 citations since 2021, nearly three times the typical New York nursing home.

The most recent April 2024 inspection found one Level 2 deficiency for reporting to the national health safety network, citing potential for more than minimal harm but no actual harm to residents. A September 2023 complaint investigation uncovered seven deficiencies across nursing competence, medication management, infection control, physician oversight, and physical plant conditions; the facility corrected all of these by November 2023.

No federal penalties or payment denials were recorded in the past three years.

On the positive side, registered nurses staff at 1 hour 14 minutes per resident daily, 76% above the state average, and a clear strength in clinical oversight and responsiveness. Long-stay quality metrics stand out: high-risk clinical event scores of 4.1 run 58% better than the state figure, and functional decline tracking is 46% above average.

Cardiac rehabilitation, palliative care, hospice partnerships, and on-site speech pathology anchor the clinical services; religious observance, pet visitation, beauty services, and family transportation support daily life.

Five active medical malpractice and tort lawsuits are pending in Nassau courts.

The community’s 164-day average length of stay and heavy reliance on Medicaid funding position it for residents requiring extended skilled nursing with strong RN presence and ongoing functional support.

Elderwood at Lockport is an SNF that 104 Old Niagara Road Operating Company, LLC operates at 104 Old Niagara Road in Lockport, New York. It’s found in a highly walkable neighborhood with a Walk Score of 80, so it’s easy for visiting family members to navigate on foot and access nearby services. Medicare, Medicaid, and private pay are accepted to provide multiple coverage pathways. The 126-bed facility currently maintains a 79 percent occupancy rate. Averaging a stay length of 132 days, Elderwood at Lockport serves a blend of residents, including those recuperating from acute illness and those requiring longer-term skilled care.

Daily nursing support averages 3 hours 4 minutes per resident, with registered nurses providing 52 minutes of that care alongside nurse aides, LPNs, and LVNs. The community specializes in subacute rehabilitation, oncology, and palliative care, so it suits residents recovering from surgery or managing serious illness with a focus on comfort and recovery. For families needing short-term support, the home offers respite care. Daily amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi, daily housekeeping and laundry service, and lively social activities. The facility features spacious patios and a park-like backyard setting with gardens, providing occupants with outdoor space for relaxation and fresh air.

Over recent years, state inspections have noted deficiencies in areas including ADL care, infection prevention, fire and electrical safety, and nurse staffing compliance, with most issues subsequently corrected.

For families touring Elderwood at Lockport, inquiring about how it manages infection control and safety protocols is a good way to examine its current standards.

Overview of Highfield Gardens Care Center

Situated in Great Neck, New York, Highfield Gardens Care Center rises as a meticulously maintained facility offering top-notch rehabilitation and subacute services. With a focus on holistic care, they boast a team of dedicated therapists proficient in physical, occupational, and speech therapies. Beyond the exceptional healthcare services, Highfield Gardens takes pride in its delectable cuisine, ensuring residents enjoy not only nourishing meals but also a delightful dining experience.

Residents can engage in various recreational activities, and the availability of concierge services adds an extra layer of convenience to their daily lives. With 200 beds and participation in Medicare and Medicaid programs, Highfield Gardens Care Center provides a comfortable, supportive, and caring environment for individuals in need of rehabilitation and subacute care.

Overview of Elmhurst Care Center

Elmhurst Care Center is a dedicated nursing home in Elmhurst, NY, that focuses on skilled nursing and rehabilitation. Promoting a stress-free setting, the community ensures older adults receive the utmost care for their healthcare needs around the clock. 24-hour care, therapy services, and a nutrition program are also offered to enrich residents’ living experiences. With its commitment to residents’ holistic welfare, the community also participates in Medicaid and Medicare to ease financial burdens while ensuring high standards of care. 

Musical entertainment, games, and exciting trips accompany residents during their stay, providing them with more opportunities to learn and gain meaningful experiences. State-of-the-art rehabilitation equipment and lively gathering spaces are among the community’s top amenities that make it an ideal place for a worry-free retirement. With its ideal location near Grand Central Parkway and various public transportation options, the community is easily accessible. This nursing home is one of the trusted options for retirement in New York, especially with its high-quality services. 

Overview of Schofield Residence Nursing Facility

Catering to Erie and Niagara counties in New York State, Schofield Residence Nursing Facility is an esteemed independent and not-for-profit senior community. This exceptional assisted living community is a beacon of quality care, encompassing short-term rehabilitation, home care, adult day health care, and skilled nursing services. With its roots tracing back to 1910, Schofield remains committed to delivering care precisely when and where it’s needed.

Nestled in the serene residential neighborhood of Kenmore, New York, Schofield Residence accommodates 120 residents in a welcoming environment. Complementing its remarkable offerings, the Home Health teams extend a wide array of comprehensive services, including private duty aides, occupational and physical therapy, and nursing assistance.

Overview of Beacon Rehabilitation and Nursing Center

Serving residents across Queens County, Beacon Rehabilitation and Nursing Center is a skilled nursing facility in Rockaway Park, New York. The 120-bed community is owned and operated by OPOP, LLC under Miriam Kessler. It offers skilled nursing, short-term rehabilitation, memory care, wound care, and respite care, and accepts Medicare, Medicaid, and private pay.

CMS gives the facility a 4-star overall rating, about 27% above New York averages. The Health Inspection sub-rating also scores above the state benchmarks. RN staffing averages 53 minutes per resident per day, 26% above the state’s average of 42 minutes, a meaningful gap in licensed clinical oversight for a community handling higher-acuity residents.

The facility’s inspection record is more mixed. It receives an average of 13.5 deficiencies per year, 165% above New York’s average of 5.1. A March 2024 complaint investigation identified an actual-harm deficiency involving abuse and neglect, along with failures to investigate and report the incident properly. All were corrected by March 2024.

A separate February 2024 complaint investigation cited nine deficiencies involving care planning, resident rights, and life safety systems. Those findings were also corrected by spring 2024. Three enforcement actions have been in the facility’s record since 2017.

Residents have access to amenities including a courtyard and garden, private family rooms, a beauty and barber salon, and spiritual programming. Therapy, recreation, and cultural services are also available.

Beacon Rehabilitation and Nursing Center’s rehabilitation capacity, memory care unit, and long-term skilled nursing track are best suited for residents seeking a clinically supported placement in the Rockaway Park area of Queens.

Salamanca Rehabilitation & Nursing Center operates a 120-bed nursing facility in Salamanca, New York, at 91% occupancy; 109 residents with an average stay of 170 days. The community manages both short-term rehabilitation and ongoing skilled nursing care. A physician is on staff; 24-hour nursing coverage is continuous. Rehabilitation services and respite stays are available, making it suited for older adults in transition from hospitalization or those requiring extended skilled care.

The neighborhood presents as moderately walkable (Walk Score 53). Visiting family can accomplish some errands on foot, though the surrounding area skews car-dependent. This matters for families planning frequent visits or for community integration during the stay.

State inspections have identified recurring themes touching on safety hazards, care practices, and facility maintenance. The facility’s response pattern shows prompt correction of deficiencies, with no documented trajectory of worsening or unresolved issues across the inspection window.

Payment options include Medicare, Medicaid, and private pay, the standard coverage channels for nursing facility residents. This payer mix supports the facility’s dual role in short-stay rehabilitation (typically Medicare-funded) and longer-term skilled nursing (often Medicaid or private-pay supported).