Share your LTC community’s award-worthy care program

The long-term care industry is not for the faint of heart. It’s a tough, demanding business for owners, operators and, especially, for the hands-on caretakers who toil in the trenches for low pay and little positive recognition.

That’s why it’s always a pleasure to kick-off Long-Term Living’s annual OPTIMA Award program, which salutes those LTC communities that are proactive with programs that go “above and beyond” routine care for their residents. Now in its 18^th year, the award was created to give national recognition to innovative, outcome-oriented staff teamwork—teamwork that contributes to the optimum function and well-being of residents.

Not only does the award recognize successful programs, it offers valuable ideas for other LTC communities to adopt and benefit from. It’s a win-win all around. For example, last year’s recipient, St. Leonard Franciscan Living Community of Centerville, Ohio, won for its Alzheimer’s therapy program, which has transformed the lives of its residents in a very positive way. The program offers some innovative solutions for other LTC facilities dealing with memory care issues. The prior year, Villa Crest Nursing and Retirement Center of Manchester, N.H., was celebrated for a revamped dining program that empowers residents with choice, socialization and satisfaction. Its program also offers solutions to common LTC operational issues.

Do you have an award-worthy program that you’d like to promote to the larger LTC community? You've come to the right place. Granted, it takes time and effort to create a submission. But hey, the payoff is pretty nice if you win—recognition by your peers, a prominent feature article in the magazine (print and online) and a spiffy trophy to display for staff, residents and guests.

The deadline for submissions is May 24. To download the submission form, click here. Good luck!

Patricia Sheehan

Patricia Sheehan was Editor in Chief of I Advance Senior Care / Long Term Living from 2010-2013. She is now manager, communications at Nestlé USA.