Nursing homes represent the fundamental link in the continuum of long-term care. Their job is to provide 24-hour care to those who are chronically ill or injured., have health care needs as well as personal needs and are unable to function independently. But, a nursing home is about more than medical care. It's a place where patients can go on with their lives - and even engage in many activities they may have never taken part in before - while under the secure and capable watch of a tema of trained caregivers.