Stacey Zerban-Roth, Vice President Health Services, Friendship Village
As senior living operators, we navigate a complex landscape where strategic growth often intertwines with the deeply personal needs of our residents. We analyze occupancy rates, explore innovative amenities, and diligently manage our financial health – all crucial elements for a thriving community. Yet, the most significant decisions we make are those that directly impact the daily lives and well-being of the individuals who call our communities home.
Recently, Friendship Village took a significant step in fulfilling our commitment to our residents by adding hospice care to our on-site services. This wasn’t simply a new program launch; it was the culmination of a long-held vision: to provide a truly comprehensive continuum of care.
| This wasn’t simply a new program launch; it was the culmination of a long-held vision: to provide a truly comprehensive continuum of care. |
Previously, when a resident reached a stage where they required hospice support, we, their chosen community, had to rely on an external provider. While these external partners offered compassionate care, there was a disconnect. Our team – who knows the resident’s preferences, their family, their story – ended up somewhat on the periphery during their final chapter. I realized when our residents needed us most, we were outsourcing to a third-party vendor. This realization became a powerful motivator.
Building a full continuum of care, including hospice, isn’t solely about filling service gaps or enhancing our market position. For Friendship Village, it was, and continues to be, about people, not just profits. It’s about honoring the trust our residents place in us when they choose our community. It’s about ensuring that as their needs evolve, we can continue to provide consistent, compassionate, and familiar support, all within the comforting embrace of their home.
The integration of on-site hospice allows our dedicated team, who have already built meaningful relationships with our residents, to remain a central part of their care journey. It ensures seamless communication, a deeper understanding of individual needs and preferences, and a sense of continuity that is invaluable during such a sensitive time. It allows us to provide holistic care that addresses not just the physical, but also the emotional and spiritual well-being of our residents and their families.
Furthermore, this intentional addition strengthens our entire community. When residents and their families witness our unwavering commitment to their care through all stages of life, it fosters a greater sense of security and trust. This, in turn, contributes to a healthier, more vibrant community where residents feel truly supported and valued.
The pursuit of quality care isn’t just a moral imperative; it’s also sound business practice. Healthy residents, who feel secure and well-cared for, contribute to a thriving community. A thriving community, built on a foundation of trust and comprehensive services, naturally leads to a healthy financial picture. Our experience at Friendship Village has consistently shown that prioritizing the well-being of our residents is not at odds with financial stability; they are intrinsically linked.
Adding hospice to our on-site services was a deliberate and intentional decision, driven by our core values and our promise to those who entrust us with their care. It’s a testament to our belief that true success in senior living lies not just in the bricks and mortar or the amenities offered, but in the unwavering commitment to the people we serve. It’s about building a community where every resident, at every stage of life, feels truly at home and deeply cared for.