Palliative care and hospice services are becoming more popular than ever. In 2011, that trend is expected to continue and intensify. In years past, hospice was rarely considered by patients who were near the ends of their lives. Today, more and more people are discovering the benefits of making use of hospice-related services. For the hospice industry, of course, this is excellent news. Despite the wavering economy and other major issues, most agree that 2011 will be a strong and positive year for the hospice industry. While certain things will present issues, the overall trend is expected to be positive.

Quite a few things are making waves in 2011; many could have impacts on the state of the hospice industry. Most significantly, the passage of health care reform is expected to have major influence over the usage of palliative care in the United States. Medicare has long provided coverage for certain types of hospice care; it is expected, however, that health care reform will provide even more hospice-related benefits. Furthermore, the system may become streamlined enough to ease the transition between nursing homes and hospice care. As a result, patients should expect higher standards of care over the upcoming years.

Section One: Hiring in the Hospice Industry in 2011

One of the unique aspects of hospice care is that it takes place in people’s homes and in hospice centers. As a result, there are plenty of jobs to be had in a wide variety of different areas. Considering that approximately 80% of people wish to die at home – and fewer than 20% are able to – it goes without saying that home-based hospice remains the most popular option. Still, patients without readily available caregivers often choose home-based hospice care to ease their transitions. Employment in hospice centers and for home-based hospice companies is expected to remain steady.

In-Demand Positions in the Hospice Industry in 2011

On the home-based hospice side of the spectrum, nurses – including RNs and LPNs – can expect to have plenty of options for work within the industry in 2011. More and more hospitals are referring patients to home-based hospice care, so the demand for nurses in this segment is higher than ever. Such professionals will enjoy flexible schedules and many unique opportunities within the hospice industry over the upcoming years. Especially experienced nurses will be able to secure the most lucrative and convenient positions.

As far as hospice centers go, social workers will be in hot demand over the next few years. Social workers assist hospice patients and their families with a wide variety of issues and concerns. Since hospices prefer to include family caregivers in the process – even when patients opt to stay at hospice centers – social workers are needed very badly. Social workers who enjoy working with family units and who have a knack for assisting with end-of-life issues are sure to have no trouble whatsoever with finding work in the hospice industry in 2011. Those who have specializations concerning Medicare will be especially hirable.

Less In-Demand Positions in the Hospice Industry in 2011

As more and more hospitals begin to integrate palliative care services into their facilities, it is expected that the number of hospice centers could be impacted. In turn, the need for hospice administrators and executives may decline. The trend seems to moving more and more toward home-based hospice services, too, which will lessen the demand for hospice administrators to some degree. While administrators will always be needed, the sharp demand for them is expected to go down a little during 2011. Administrative positions in other healthcare fields will continue to be highly in demand, though.

Section Two: Expected Growth in the Hospice Industry in 2011

Like so many other senior care industries, the hospice industry is expected to boom as aging Baby Boomers seek palliative care in increasing numbers. As the population of the United States climbs, the need for hospice care will, too. Trends are turning away from dying in cold, institutional settings; more and more people are demanding more caring end-of-life experiences. The combination of an aging population and a shift in mentalities about death should converge to make the hospice industry thrive into 2011 and beyond.

Another interesting fact that should spur the growth of the hospice industry in 2011 is the fact that it is still largely underserved. Even in 2010, many patients who sought hospice care were unable to find it in their immediate areas. As the demand continues to skyrocket, more and more services and facilities should open. This is bound to create a significant boom in the hospice industry. Facilities that are able to provide topnotch care – and plenty of home-based services – should do quite well in 2011. If health reform ends up facilitating the use of hospice services, this trend will be intensified even further.

Section Three: Hospice Industry Trends in 2011

Many key changes are expected to occur in 2011; several of them will have significant impacts on the hospice industry. While trends within the industry tend to evolve steadily over time, hiring managers and others within the industry can expect to see a few surprises this year. By staying attuned to emerging trends in the hospice industry, interested parties can make more effective decisions and plans over the upcoming year. Although many trends are carrying over from 2010, there are seven particular trends that should be kept in mind for the upcoming year; they include:

1. Health Care Reform – Several important changes are expected to occur in the hospice industry due to health care reform. Most significantly, it allows children who are enrolled in Medicaid to receive curative and hospice services. This is an important change that is sure to have dramatic impacts on hospice care in the U.S. Reform is also expected to increase the security of hospices, since it requires them to perform background checks on employees, among other security checks. Hospices will also be required to report on quality measures or face penalties. This regulation should help strengthen the industry.
2. Regulatory and Reimbursement Challenges – As noted above, reform is going to change many regulatory aspects of running a hospice. It could be a bumpy road, especially at first, for many hospices. Furthermore, the changing landscape of Medicare should result in reimbursement issues for some hospices. For best results, hospices should keep someone on staff who is charged with staying abreast of these types of issues.
3. Hospital-Based Palliative Care – Although it is not expected to put a major dent in the popularity of or need for hospice care, the increasing addition of palliative care to hospitals around the country is sure to have some impact on the industry. Considering that most patients turn to hospice care in order to avoid hospitals, however, it is safe to say that hospital-based palliative care isn’t going to be giving traditional hospice care a run for its money just yet.
4. Electronic Records – Because many hospices have been very small operations in the past, many have not gotten up to speed on electronic records, even in 2010. Therefore, 2011 is going to be an important year in terms of catching up with the growing use of electronic records. To remain competitive – and to be reimbursed in a timely manner – hospices are going to have to implement topnotch electronic records management into their systems.
5. Nursing Home Transitions – As the elderly population grows, the number of people in nursing homes climbs, as well. Increasingly, many nursing home patients are transitioning into hospice care; this is especially true for patients who have conditions like Alzheimer’s. Partnerships between nursing homes and hospice organizations are sure to increase over the next year or two. Such partnerships make life easier for patients, too, by reducing the amount of disruption that they have to deal with during this time in their lives.
6. The Inclusion of Caregivers – Hospices have generally striven to include caregivers in the hospice experience for many years now. However, this trend is certain to increase as many out-of-work and financially struggling adults try to keep elderly parents at home instead of in nursing homes. Hospices must be willing to provide training and support for caregivers in order to provide the best services possible. Hospices that fail to do so will lose patients to those that do. Including caregivers and other family members in the end-of-life process is actually fairly simple, so most hospice organizations should be able to do so with ease.
7. Advanced Directives – As sophisticated as many hospice centers have become, many of them still have to grapple with confusion over advanced directives every day. Education about the importance of making advanced directives continues to rise, though, so more and more people are laying out their wishes well before hospice care is required. Hospices will most likely begin engaging in campaigns in their communities to raise awareness about the importance of advanced directives. In turn, the end-of-life process will increasingly become smoother and easier to manage for all involved – and that will strengthen the industry, too.

The resources for the hospice industry article are:

http://www.victorypartnersllc.com/pdfs/Spring%202005%20Hospice%20Industry%20Report.pdf

http://www.medpac.gov/publications/congressional_reports/June04_ch6.pdf

http://www.hospicefoundation.org/uploads/florida_ii.pdf

http://www.cvtips.com/career-choice/career-trends-for-hospice-nursing-jobs.html

http://www.nhhpco.org/Conference2010/SPEAKER_PRESENTATIONS/MarthaTeccaTopTrends.pdf

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/214772.php

http://dying.about.com/b/2010/03/23/obama-signs-health-care-reform-bill-whats-next-for-hospice.htm

2011 is sure to bring about many changes with the nursing home and rehab industry. Unlike many years, though, these changes may be a bit more subtle than usual. The passage of healthcare reform in early 2010 definitely set the stage for many dramatic changes within the industry; however, the full impact of those changes shouldn’t be felt for another year or two. Still, reform is going to shape and color many of the trends in the nursing home and rehab industry in 2011, so hiring manager and other industry professionals should take note.

Section One: Job Outlook for the Nursing Home and Rehab Industry in 2011

Healthcare is usually a safe bet for anyone who wants steady, long-term employment. Even during poor economic times, people need health care. As the population in the U.S. continues to age, topnotch care for the elderly is more in-demand than ever. That doesn’t mean that all careers within the industry are protected from the lackluster economy, though. Like many other businesses, many nursing homes and rehab facilities are looking to cut financial corners wherever they can. To get a feel for the jobs that will be in-demand and less in-demand, check out the info below.

In-Demand Jobs in the Nursing Home and Rehab Industry in 2011

Nurses, including LPNs and RNs, will remain in high demand within the rehab and nursing home industry in 2011. These skilled and highly trained professionals provide some of the most critical care at such facilities, allowing them to conduct their day-to-day business. Since nursing homes and rehab facilities are designed for those who need extra medical care and attention, it makes sense that RNs and LPNs should continue to be mainstays. Nurse’s assistants might see a spike in demand, too, but licensed nurses will hold their positions.

Janitorial and maintenance roles will increasingly be merged into single positions at many nursing homes. Essentially, such facilities will hire “handymen” who will be able to tackle the cleanup and care of the grounds and buildings. Candidates who have a broad array of knowledge and experience with maintenance and janitorial sciences will have the greatest success of finding employment within the rehab and nursing home industry. More and more “jacks of all trades” will find steady employment in these facilities, since they basically provide the services of two employees for the salary of one.

Less In-Demand Jobs in the Rehab and Nursing Home Industry in 2011

It’s becoming easier and more affordable than ever for all types of businesses to outsource their administrative functions. Things like basic data entry and human resources services can easily be sourced out to inexpensive contractors; many nursing homes and rehab facilities will turn to such services in 2011. As a result, those who are seeking clerical positions within the industry will have a hard time of things. Those who already hold such positions aren’t likely to give them up – or be promoted – in the current economic climate.

Maintenance positions will be less in-demand within the nursing home and rehab industry in 2011, as such roles are merged with janitorial positions. In the past, such facilities often kept separate maintenance and janitorial personnel on staff. As budgetary constraints mount, more and more facilities are looking to merge such roles into one. People who are strictly trained and experienced in the maintenance field will have more difficulty finding jobs within the industry in 2011. To stay competitive, they should add janitorial experience to the resumes if they want to land jobs in nursing homes and rehab facilities in 2011.

Growth in the Nursing Home and Rehab Industry in 2011

As has been the case for the last several years, the steadily aging population of the United States will prompt additional growth within the nursing home and rehab industry in 2011. Baby boomers are just getting into old age; most will be able to remain on their own or in independent living facilities. However, more and more will be requiring the more intensive care of rehab facilities and nursing homes. Either way, there is little chance of a decline in the popularity of such facilities, since the elderly will continue to need such services.

While growth will continue in the industry in 2011, it could slow down a little. The main reason for that revolves around healthcare reform. Medicaid payments to facilities within the industry are predicted to be cut considerably over the next year or two as reform starts kicking in. For a while, there could be a lull in the growth and demand for nursing homes and rehab facilities. Chances are, though, that the slowdown will be minimal. Few facilities will be dramatically affected by the changes, at least during 2011; more dramatic impacts will be felt next year.

Healthcare reform may have a bit of a negative impact on the nursing home and rehab industry at first; however, it is believed that reform will simplify the way in which the elderly pay for such facilities in the long run. Nursing homes and rehab facilities are recognized as needs by most healthcare practitioners. As a result, reform may actual spur a bit more growth within the nursing home and rehab industry in 2011. At this point, it is still too soon to say whether the net effect of reform will be positive, negative or neutral.

Section Three: Trends in the Nursing Home and Rehab Industry in 2011

Some of the trends within the nursing home and rehab industry in 2011 will be carried over from the previous year. Some will intensify, and others will be completely new. Professionals within the industry, including hiring managers, should try to stay on top of these trends in order to perform their duties more efficiently and effectively. While not all of these trends will be felt in every single nursing home and rehab facility, they should color the industry as a whole in 2011.

1. Roomier Accommodations – Senior citizens have more clout than ever, as their numbers continue to grow. As a result, you can expect to see roomier accommodations within nursing homes and rehab facilities than ever in 2011. Private rooms will become more common, too, as fewer people choose to share their rooms with others. This dovetails with the trend away from the clinical feel that nursing homes used to be known for.
2. ”Universal Workers” – One potentially negative trend that may develop within the nursing home and rehab industry in 2011 is the increased use of “universal workers.” These workers will increasingly take on the roles of three, four or even five previous employees. For instance, one person may be in charge of entertainment, activities and outings. This will reduce the quality of care at some facilities.
3. Foreclosures – Thousands of foreclosures happened in 2010. As a result, many people who once provided shelter for their elderly loved ones are no longer able to do so. This trend should boost the growth of the industry in 2011; elderly people who have lost or will lose their homes are also more likely to go into nursing homes this year.
4. Classes – In order to provide enrichment programs for their residents, more and more nursing homes and rehab facilities will be offering classes. These classes will typically be conducted by outside organizations; every now and then, though, the facility will provide the classes itself. These classes will generally include fun arts and crafts and book club-style sessions.
5. Person- Centered Approach - While nursing homes and rehab facilities are primarily designed to assist people who need extra medical attention, they are increasingly moving away from the clinical, hospital-style approach that they once had. In order to keep residents happy and on board for the long haul, many facilities are switching over to a person-centered approach.
6. Budget Cuts – In order to stay afloat, many facilities will be slashing their budgets in 2011. This trend carries over from 2010, when many facilities began to struggle. Corners are sure to be cut at many facilities around the U.S.; in many cases, special activities and outings will be canceled. Furthermore, many places will continue to pare back their staffs to the bare minimum. In some cases, these cuts will be quite detrimental to the well-being of nursing home residents. Facilities that manage to stay afloat without these cuts will enjoy the most success.
7. Specialized Facilities – While full-service nursing homes and rehab facilities will continue to be the norm, there will be an increasing number of specialized facilities in 2011. For instance, facilities that specialize in dementia and Alzheimer’s will continue to grow in popularity.

The nursing home and rehab industry isn’t going anywhere. 2011 may be a tough year for the industry, but it should continue to grow more than anything. Facilities that manage to go with the flow and evolve are the ones that will stand the best chance of survival. Overall, 2011 should be a steady and low-key year for the industry.

subject: Nursing Home/Rehab References

http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos083.htm#projections_data

http://www.nursinghomesabuseblog.com/national-nursing-home-issues/nursing-home-insights-from-the-director-of-a-therapeutic-recreation-and-activity-consultant/

http://www.scumdoctor.com/senior-care/Trends-In-Nursing-Home-Senior-Care-Facilities.html

http://www.healthcarefinancenews.com/news/healthcare-reform-could-stifle-nursing-home-industry-growth

With the dawning of a new year, hiring managers and professionals within the assisted living industry are undoubtedly curious about what the next twelve months have in store. So far, it looks like 2011 is going to be a lot like 2010, with one glaring exception: healthcare reform. In March of 2010, healthcare reform was signed into law. The exact ramifications that reform will have on the assisted living industry remain unclear; however, it’s sure to make for a very interesting 2011. Other than reform, the industry appears to be on a fairly even keel for the upcoming twelve months.

Section One: Hiring in the Assisted Living and Memory Care Industry in 2011

Although the assisted living industry has not been hit as hard as other industries in terms of unemployment, it has definitely been affected by the ongoing economic crisis. As assisted living facilities scramble to cut costs wherever they can, they tend to strip away jobs that aren’t completely necessary. As a result, there may be less variety in terms of employment within the assisted living industry in 2011. Still, anyone who is embarking on a new career should put this industry at the top of their lists, as it continues to be extremely relevant and necessary.

In-Demand Positions in the Assisted Living Industry in 2011

In order to cut costs, many assisted living facilities are trending more towards hiring part-time help. Those who are flexible enough to take on part-time work will have better chances of finding work within the assisted living industry. Medical assistants continue to be very much in demand within the industry in 2011. Although some medical assistants earn certifications, many simply get by with on-the-job training. In the latter case, employers can generally pay lower salaries. As a result, medical assistants are great options in a flagging economy.

Food preparation workers are sure to be highly in demand within the assisted living industry in 2011. Although such facilities are trying to keep costs down, they have to compete with other facilities in order to stay afloat. More and more people are demanding exceptional nutrition at assisted living facilities. Therefore, the food that is being served at such facilities is trending more towards freshly prepared meals, as opposed to highly processed frozen foods. As a result, there is a greater need for food prep workers these days.

Less In-Demand Positions in the Assisted Living Industry in 2011

During boom times, assisted living facilities could afford to hire plenty of office help. Due to the suffering economy and thanks, in part, to modern technology, administrative assistants aren’t nearly as in-demand within the industry as they once were. While there will always be somewhat of a need for office workers within the assisted living industry, most facilities will be able to get by with reduced staffs. This situation is hardly unique to the industry, though – it is happening in nearly every industry, as sophisticated software programs eliminate the need for dozens of office workers per location.

Assisted living facilities will continue to join forces with healthcare providers within their communities. This could take a toll on the demand for in-house social workers at assisted living facilities. As partnerships are forged between local agencies and assisted living facilities, many facilities may choose not to hire on their own social workers. In 2011, it will be less likely than ever for an assisted living facility to have a social worker on staff – let alone several of them. In the past, social workers could find employment at such facilities with ease; in 2011, that’s not quite the case anymore.

Section Two: Assisted Living Industry Expected Growth in 2011

The famous Baby Boomer generation becomes elderly between 2010 and 2030. In 2011, then, the first wave of Boomers will become senior citizens; many of them will require assisted living services. While the overall economy is lackluster at best, the surge in the elderly population of the U.S. is sure to offset that by a significant degree. In fact, some reports predict that one in five Americans will be elderly by the year 2050. That’s definitely positive news for the assisted living industry, as more seniors will be out looking for housing than ever.

There is an interesting contrast to be expected in terms of growth within the assisted living industry in 2011. On the one hand, the poor economy is likely to keep many seniors at home with loved ones in order to save money. On the other, fewer seniors will opt for more costly independent living facilities. These contrasting forces will, at the minimum, keep the assisted living industry on an even keel for 2011. The aging Baby Boomer population, of course, may tip the balance to create a very profitable year for the industry.

Section Three: Assisted Living Industry Trends in 2011

Although hiring managers and assisted living industry professionals shouldn’t expect any major surprises in 2011, they should keep their eyes peeled for a few notable trends. Some of the year’s trends are carrying over from last year and being reinforced; others are wholly new but not necessarily earth-shattering. Still, professionals and hiring managers are wise to keep their fingers on the pulse of assisted living industry trends. Seven of the most notable trends for the next twelve months are highlighted below.

1. Increased Focus on Memory Care – As more and more is learned about memory-related illnesses like Alzheimer’s disease, more and more assisted living facilities are incorporating memory care services into their repertoires. Instead of having to select a memory care facility for a loved one, then, many people are opting for assisted living facilities that include memory care services. This is a convenient option for those who want to take advantage of what assisted living facilities have to offer while addressing the memory-related needs of their loved ones.
2. Flexible Financing Options – Medicare is being relied on more heavily than ever to finance assisted living stays. The passage of healthcare reform in the United States most likely means even more financing options for the elderly in the not-too-distant future. 2011 should be an interesting year in terms of financing options within the industry. More than likely, this trend will be beneficial to the assisted living industry and should help to spur its growth even more.
3. Fewer Facilities – In anticipation of the major boom that’s being brought on by aging Baby Boomers, a huge number of assisted living facilities were built over the last ten years. Due to the poor economy, though, the number is going to be whittled down a bit in 2011. The survivors will be the facilities that offer the best prices, the best services and the most flexible financing options. In many ways, this small reduction should work to strengthen the assisted living facility over the long run.
4. Shorter Hospital Stays – Every year, the lengths of hospital stays gets shorter and shorter. 2011 will be no different. Concerns over the rising cost of health care will prompt patients to get in and out of hospitals more quickly than ever. As a result, many elderly people may choose to move into assisted living facilities in lieu of staying in the hospital any longer than is necessary.
5. Healthcare Reform – The biggest wildcard for 2011 has to be healthcare reform. The exact changes aren’t fully known yet; the precise impact on the industry remains largely in the dark. As reform starts kicking in, there should be some interesting changes within the industry. Also, many facilities will start making changes in anticipation of healthcare reform-related issues.
6. More Complex Pricing Schemes – One trend that assisted living facilities should try to steer clear of in 2011 is overly complex pricing schemes. Competition is sure to be fierce between local assisted living facilities. Facilities that have confusing pricing schemes are going to lose out against those whose pricing schemes are straightforward and simple to understand. Facilities with transparent fees and charges will enjoy the greatest success in 2011.
7. More People Staying at Home – In an effort to save as much money as possible, more seniors are expected to stay at home with relatives in 2011. With the increasing number of foreclosures that have been happening, though, this trend may be a bit muted. The assisted living industry shouldn’t be negatively affected by the trend towards staying at home.

Assisted Living in 2011: On an Even Keel

When you consider the pluses and minuses that will be occurring within the assisted living industry in 2011, it’s clear to see that things should basically balance out over the year. As always, the assisted living industry should continue to be a great option for those who would like to enjoy steady employment throughout their careers. Those who are already working in the industry shouldn’t worry about losing their jobs, as the aging Baby Boomer generation keeps beds full around the country. As a whole, the industry should continue to thrive throughout 2011 and beyond.

subject: Assisted Living References

http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos331.htm

http://www.ibisworld.com/industry/default.aspx?indid=1599

http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m3830/is_n3_v47/ai_20891662/pg_2/?tag=content;col1

http://www.seniorhomes.com/p/assisted-living-trends/

http://www.arausa.com/FTP/seniors/2010Outlook_ARA.pdf

http://www.caregiver.org/caregiver/jsp/content_node.jsp?nodeid=440

If you work in the independent living industry or would like to, it helps to have an idea of where things are going within the industry. Although there’s no way to predict the future, there’s enough data out there to make some very clear predictions about what 2011 will hold for the independent living industry. The following report highlights important information about the upcoming year, including employment outlook, industry growth and trends to watch. By familiarizing yourself with the following information, you can be better prepared for the upcoming year as it pertains to the independent living industry.

Section One: Employment Outlook

Last year, the independent living industry was hit hard by the struggling economy. While a full recovery is still far off, things have been turning around a bit. Many seniors moved in with their children and grandchildren in order to avoid the expense of an independent living facility in 2010; in 2011, that trend is expected to reverse itself. A small but significant influx of seniors into independent living facilities is likely to occur in 2011.

As always, the population in the United States continues to age. When that fact is combined with the slightly improved state of today’s economy, 2011 is gearing up to be a healthy one for the independent living industry. Unlike many other cultures, families in the U.S. prefer not to live in multi-generational homes. Therefore, if the money exists to pay for an independent living facility, it will be spent. Thousands upon thousands of seniors will reach ages where more secure living arrangements are necessary, so employment should be up at independent living facilities across the United States in 2011.

In-Demand Positions in 2011

In 2011, two main positions appear to be overshadowing the rest in the independent living industry: physical therapy assistants and aides and licensed practical nurses.

In an effort to reduce their operating budgets, many independent living facilities pared down the number of physical therapists that they keep on staff. To offset that, it’s expected that physical therapy aides and assistants will skyrocket in demand in 2011. Many facilities will hire one licensed physical therapists, then rely on assistants and aides to perform the majority of the day-to-day work.

Licensed practical nurses will be able to find work within the independent living industry with ease in 2011. As with physical therapy aides and assistants, LPNs work under the supervision of registered nurses and physicians. They are affordable options for independent living facilities whose budgets are tight due to the tough economic times. LPNs provide invaluable assistance to the doctors and RNs in an independent living facility. It’s possible to become an LPN with only one year of training, too, which should make this an attractive option for many people.

Less In-Demand Positions in 2011

Although independent living facilities should continue to offer special activities for their residents, the skyrocketing cost of gas could have an impact on the frequency of such outings. As a result, transportation needs should be reduced at many independent living facilities in 2011. People who are seek work as drivers and bus drivers for such facilities may have a hard time of things. Independent living facilities will probably try to keep their outings as local as possible, too, to keep costs down. While transportation jobs in other industries may flourish, opportunities will most likely be scarce in the independent living industry.

Section Two: Industry Growth

On March 23, 2010, the Affordable Care Act was signed into law. This momentous legislation is sure to have a profound impact on the independent living industry. However, the specific ways in which these changes will affect the industry remain unclear. More than likely, however, seniors will have even better control over how they pay for their living expenses into retirement. Industry insiders believe that healthcare reform will be highly beneficial to the independent living industry. Whether the expected changes will have an impact on the industry in 2011 remains to be seen.

Many people consider independent living to be the more expensive alternative to nursing home care. Although the economy is beginning to recover, people are still pinching their pennies. Therefore, nursing homes will probably continue to be more popular than assisted living facilities. Uncertainty about the impact of healthcare reform is also prompting people to be extremely conservative – especially seniors. Independent living facilities that can slash costs and offer lower prices will thrive in 2011; those whose rates are exceptionally higher than nursing homes’ will more than likely stagnate. In 2011, affordability is of key concern for any independent living facility.

Section Three: Trends to Watch in the Independent Living Industry in 2011

2011 is shaping up to be a very interesting year in the world of independent living. There are many important trends to keep your eye on during the upcoming year. Whether you are a hiring manager, an employee within the industry or another interested party, staying abreast of emerging trends is sure to be helpful. Seven of the most significant 2011 trends to watch in the independent living industry are outlined below.

Sources:

http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos078.htm

http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos102.htm

http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos167.htm

http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos078.htm

http://www.healthcare.gov/

http://www.anythingresearch.com/industry/Continuing-Care-Retirement-Communities.htm

http://www.hoovers.com/industry/long-term-care-facilities/1382-1.html

http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m3830/is_8_48/ai_55685309/

The passage of sweeping health care reform in the United States in 2010 is setting the stage for many key changes and trends within the home car and home health industry. In 2011, working professionals and hiring managers within the home care and home health industry can expect to see several emerging trends and changes that have been prompted by the state of the economy, health care reform and other factors. As always, the elderly population in the U.S. continues to rise and will have a leveling effect on any dip that may occur within the industry.

2010 was a very bad year for homeowners. Many people lost their homes due to the poor economy and the bursting of the so-called real estate bubble. Fraud among mortgage lenders has been rampant, and senior citizens are the most popular targets. As a result, quite a few seniors lost their homes in 2010. Whether the number of people who lost their homes is significant enough to impact the home care and home health industry remains to be seen. It may also be mitigated by the fact that more people than ever are seeking to avoid hospitals and the huge bills that go along with them.

Section One: Hiring in the Home Care and Home Health Care Industry in 2011

While most industries are experiencing layoffs, cutbacks and other issues, the overall healthcare industry continues to flourish. That trend should continue into 2011, and it should be especially prominent within the home health care and home care industry. Although working in home care isn’t for everyone, those who are suited for it will be able to take their pick from many in-demand positions. The industry isn’t expected to experience any significant downsizing or other drawbacks during the next year.

In-Demand Positions in the Home Care and Home Health Care Industry in 2011

Home care aides will continue to be in very high demand with in the home care and home health care industry in 2011. Because home care aides handle a large array of different tasks – and because they are not trained as nurses – they tend to be very economical choices for home care companies. Many people who are unable to find work in their current industries could easily receive training to become home care aides; in fact, many already have. Still, the number of available aides versus demand is quite unbalanced.

Home health aides, who usually work for home health agencies, work under the supervision of trained professionals. They keep track of patients’ progress and report back to their superiors. Many home care companies turn to home health aides because they lessen the burden that’s placed on the shoulders of LPNs, RNs and other professionals. In 2011, demand for home health aides is expected to be higher than ever. This position is also a great stepping stone for those who want to see what the home care field is like, but who aren’t sure if they are a good fit.

Less In-Demand Positions in the Home Care and Home Health Care Industry in 2011

As reliance on home health aides and home care aides grows, demand for social workers and therapists in home-based settings may decrease in 2011. While such positions will continue to exist, they may be pared down by organizations that are looking to cut costs. While social workers don’t generally command enormous salaries, they are still paid more than home care aides. Most likely, many home care aides will report back to social workers and other professionals, who will only pay personal visits at infrequent intervals.

Section Two: Expected Growth in the Home Care and Home Health Care Industry in 2011

The poor economy and the high number of foreclosures that have occurred in the U.S. within the last year are sure to have an impact on the growth of the home care and home health care industry in 2011. However, health reform will most likely mitigate – or even overcome – many of those complications. While the number of seniors who own their own homes may have dipped within the last year, healthcare reform is expected to provide funding for home-based nurse visits and other home health care.

One important part of the health care reform bill that passed in March of 2010 is called “Optional Coverage of Nurse Home Visitation Services.” In order to pass, provisions had to be included in the health care reform laws that allowed for home visits by nurses and other professionals. Currently, Medicaid and Medicare pay for limited amounts of such visits. Under the new health care laws, more people than ever may have cheap, easy access to home health care. For the home care and home health care industry, then, the reform could have a dramatic and positive effect.

Section Three: Home Care and Home Health Care Industry Trends in 2010

Several of the home care and home health care industry trends from 2010 will continue and expand in 2011. However, hiring managers and professionals within the industry can expect to see a few new and emerging trends appear in the upcoming year. Some will have major impacts on the industry; others won’t be quite as noticeable. As a whole, though, these trends are going to shape the way that the home care and home health care industry works over the next decade or so.

Sources:

http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos326.htm

http://www.leadinghomecare.com/lhcreport/20101006.html

http://www.themedica.com/articles/2009/03/the-us-home-healthcare-industr.html

http://www.interimhealthcare.com/franchise/info/industry_trends/homecare.aspx