Comments on: 10 Benefits of Culture Change on Skilled Nursing

By: HollyL

HollyL — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 09:57:00 +0000

Well written article, though I have to agree with lindaarmas in that the substandard care will always be there.
I work in long term care and see first hand the ‘cosmetic’ changes that have been made to the environment but the increasing need for employees who treat residents with compassion and respect. What I see more of is staff not being held accountable for their poor actions and interactions with residents and other employees. There are too many people in this ‘industry’ that just shouldn’t be in it. I believe that what draws them in is the above average minimum wage, not the fact that the job requires you to actually ‘care’ for people. You either have this ability or you don’t. It is a very demanding job that has mulitfacited responsibilities as well.

By: Nursing Home Culture Change | Chicago Bridge

Nursing Home Culture Change | Chicago Bridge — Wed, 29 Sep 2010 01:19:25 +0000

[...] then residents will feel better, as their needs are being comprehensively addressed. I think culture change should continue to be implemented because it results in better mental health for both…. The residents are in a better mood, which results in less depression, anger, anxiety, or agitation [...]

By: lindaarmas

lindaarmas — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 20:15:20 +0000

This is a philosophy that makes sense and can be very beneficial to make nursing homes less “institutional” and improve quality-of-life not just for seniors, but for employees as well. My concern is that as long as caregiving is regarded as a minimum-wage, unskilled job there will always be a problem with employee turnover and substandard care in this industry. It's not just about money, but about the hearts of the people caring for our seniors and the importance of hiring staff with the right values. No amount of training can change a person's basic character or mandate true caring.

By: ryanmalone

ryanmalone — Thu, 08 Apr 2010 23:03:15 +0000

Thanks Ann for the comment. There is a lot of fantastic work going on in this space. I am hoping that some of this will pressure the residential care providers to accelerate person-centric care. I know that some are speaking about in terms of activity programming, but few are moving forward with a 360-degree approach.

By: Ann Catlin

Ann Catlin — Thu, 08 Apr 2010 22:29:19 +0000

What started as a grassroots effort in the Midwest has gained momentum in very important ways. From the direct caregiver to the people with legislative power. True culture change goes beyond choice and building design. It reaches into our psyche and heart and changes us at a profound level. We become better caregivers and our lives are made richer. Quality of care isn't determined by the bricks and mortar but by the attitudes and actions of each of us. Thank you, Ryan for calling attention to this important topic of our times.