Assisted Living Executive

BeST PraCTICeS STraTegIC Solu TIonS InnoVaTIVe THInKIng VoluMe 17 | nuMBer 3 PuBlISHeD By alfa

Executive ASSISTED LIVING

contents | May/June2010

44

FEATURES

14 Best of the Best

By wHITney reDDIng

Each year, the ALFA’s Best of the Best competition grows more competitive, and 2010 is no exception as a record number of best practices earn awards. From great ideas for enhancing resident services to smart strategies for supporting staff, this year’s Best of the Best award winners push the bar of operational excellence to new heights.

27 strategic safety

By anya Mar TIn

Prep work can help minimize damages and maximize resources when a community finds itself in the middle of an emergency situation. Plus, what staff members do before disaster strikes gets them closer to business as usual when it’s all over.

34 dining sweet spot

By Bryan oCHalla

As the senior living business continues to grow more competitive, dining services is one of those high-profile aspects of community living that goes a long way toward resident satisfaction and increased marketability.

DEPARTMENTS

5

top of Mind Richard P. Grimes ALFA President & CEO

6 need to Know Industry updates and ALFA news

51 People & Places Appointments and developments

54 compliance corner Medical marijuana do’s and don’ts

COVER IMAGE: DAVE CUTLER

34

40 engaging Online Boomers

By aMy foSTer TrenZ

Born between 1946 and 1964, baby boomers in the United States make up an important target population for the senior living business, so companies must be where these individuals go for information—the Internet.

44 taking Paws

By aDaM STone

Residents and staff members alike feel more at home in communities that welcome companion animals. Check out these strategies for making that perk a success.

48 striving for Positive change

An exclusive interview with Sen. Mark Warner of Virginia reveals his personal experience with Alzheimer’s disease and his vision for the nation’s long-term care.

ALFA celebrates 20 Years of serving seniors Happy 20th anniversary to the Assisted Living Federation of America! Check out the special anniversary coverage starting on page 11. This issue of Assisted Living Executive is also the official magazine of the ALFA 2010 Conference & Expo, May 25-27, in Phoenix. Be sure to visit magazine staff (Booth #529) in the exhibit hall!