When considering a retirement community for yourself or a loved one, it’s essential to look beyond the aesthetics and amenities. The true heart of any retirement community lies in its staff. The residents’ quality of care and well-being are profoundly influenced by the people who work there. Staff with the right personalities and qualities can transform a retirement community into a warm, welcoming home where residents feel respected, cared for, and valued.
What do you look for in Retirement Community staff?
Staff in a retirement community must possess unique qualities to excel in their roles. Among the most crucial are compassion, care, respect for elders, and professionalism.
At the core of exceptional staff is a deep sense of compassion. Working with older adults often involves supporting individuals through various physical and emotional challenges. Compassionate staff members provide medical and daily living assistance and emotional support, creating an environment where residents feel understood and cared for.
Treating residents with respect is fundamental. Quality staff members honor older adults’ life experiences and wisdom, ensuring that interactions are always respectful and dignified. This respect is evident in how they address residents, involve them in decisions about their care, and recognize their individuality.
While forming close bonds with residents, staff must maintain professionalism. This balance ensures that residents receive high-quality, reliable care while also feeling like they are part of a family. Professionalism involves adhering to ethical standards, respecting privacy, and providing consistent, competent care.
Staff members are also charged with keeping an eye on possible changes in health status or mental changes. Many difficult situations are avoided when staff members are sensitive to those changes and get an intervention started early.
Creating a Family Atmosphere with Respect
Quality staff treat residents like family, fostering a sense of belonging and community. However, this familial approach must never compromise respect and privacy. Residents should feel comfortable and valued, with staff members recognizing their need for autonomy and involvement in their care decisions. This balance helps residents maintain their self-esteem and independence while also feeling secure and loved.
The Role of Staff Longevity
Longevity among staff is a strong indicator of a well-functioning retirement community. When staff members remain with a community for extended periods, it suggests that they are a good fit for their roles and are happy with their work environment. High staff retention rates are often associated with better care quality, as experienced staff have a deeper understanding of the resident’s needs and the community’s culture.
During tours of potential retirement communities, take the time to observe and interact with the staff. Notice if they are smiling and seem genuinely happy in their roles. Engaged and content staff members are a positive sign that the community operates at a high level of care and support.
Many McCrite Plaza staff members have been on site for 10-30 years. Most importantly, the McCrite family administrates both campuses. It was started by Pat and Judy McCrite almost 50 years ago, and now the entire family is involved. That consistency creates an authentic family atmosphere.
The Difference Quality Staff Make
It’s possible to have a beautiful facility with top-notch amenities, but the community will not feel like home without the right staff. Quality staff are what set exceptional retirement communities apart from others. They create an environment where residents feel truly cared for, respected, and valued. The dedication and warmth of the staff can turn a retirement community from a place where people live into a place where people thrive.
In the search for the right retirement community, the importance of quality staff cannot be overstated. Compassionate, respectful, and professional staff members are the cornerstone of a supportive and nurturing environment. They provide necessary care and foster a sense of family and belonging, ensuring that residents feel welcomed and cared for. High staff retention rates and happy, engaged employees are key indicators of a well-functioning community. When choosing a retirement community, prioritize the quality of the staff to ensure a positive and enriching experience for your loved ones.
Come for a tour at McCrite Plaza, talk to staff members, and observe their interactions with residents. This is key to a successful retirement experience!
Call McCrite Plaza in Briarcliff-Kansas City at (816) 888-7930 or (785) 267-2960 in Topeka, or complete the contact form below.
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