Which type of institutional facility is characterized by the provision of long-term care for the elderly?

The choice of a nursing home accurately represents an institutional facility designed for long-term care specifically for the elderly. Nursing homes are equipped to provide both medical care and assistance with daily living activities, allowing residents to receive support that is often necessary due to age-related health issues or disabilities. They offer a safe environment with trained staff to address the unique needs of aging individuals, ensuring they receive appropriate attention and care over an extended period.

In contrast, hospitals are typically focused on acute care for short-term illnesses or injuries and are not designed for long-term residency. Correctional facilities serve a completely different purpose, aimed at housing individuals who have committed crimes, rather than providing care for the elderly. Rehab centers focus on recovery from various conditions, such as substance abuse or physical injuries, often offering temporary care rather than long-term residence. Therefore, the characterization of a nursing home as the facility providing long-term care for the elderly makes it the correct answer.