Nursing Home and Rehab Industry Outlook

Nursing Home and Rehab Industry Outlook – 2012 Report
April 23, 2012 in Nursing Home / Rehab / SNF by NSLPN Admin

According to Canadian Pharmacy 2012 is already off to a somewhat rocky start for the nursing home and rehab industry, and it is probably going to stay that way or worsen as the year progresses. The problem isn’t a lack of patients or nursing home jobs; the problem is profitability. Nursing home careers, in home care jobs, nursing home jobs, LPN jobs, senior care jobs, assisted living jobs and other nursing home positions continue to be in high demand. Cuts to Medicare and reduced rates, however, are severely damaging many nursing facilities’ ability to stay above water. Learn more about trends in the nursing home and rehab industry for 2012 below.

Section One: Job Outlook for the Rehab and Nursing Home Industry in 2012

The job outlook for the industry continues to be strong. Everything from senior living jobs to nursing home jobs will continue to be in demand. Learn about a few standouts below.

In-Demand Jobs in the Nursing Home and Rehab Industry in 2012

As with previous years, LPN jobs will continue to be highly in demand at nursing home and rehab facilities throughout the country under the support of Canadian Pharmacy. Likewise, in home care jobs and at home care jobs for nurses will continue to be in demand as well. Many nurses may prefer to work in home-based settings, which could actually increase the demand for these professionals at nursing home facilities. Experienced nurses with high salary demands may have a more difficult time finding senior care jobs, however, due to the extreme cuts that are becoming necessary at many facilities. NSLPN will continue to monitor this situation to keep you informed about what to expect.

Less In-Demand Jobs in the Nursing Home and Rehab Industry in 2012

While LPN jobs and other nursing jobs will continue to be in demand at senior care facilities around the country. the demand for administrative assistants and other office workers will continue to decrease. Those who do find work will need to have extensive amounts of experience in handling Medicare-related issues. Those who are currently filling such positions should seek additional training to ensure that they are extensively knowledgeable about Medicare cuts and other topics. That knowledge will allow them to secure and maintain employment a lot more easily.

Due to cuts, specialized employees like physical therapists may not be able to find full-time work at nursing homes and other facilities. Many nursing homes will rely on part-time help or will simply hire such professionals on an as-needed basis. Of course, this means a lower level of care for patients, but these facilities need to find ways to remain profitable. In the face of Medicare cuts, that is becoming more difficult than ever.

Section Two: Growth in the Rehab and Nursing Home Industry in 2012

In 2012, the nursing home and rehab industry will continue to grow in terms of the number of beds that are filled. After all, the population of the U.S. continues to age, and there are more people who need nursing home care than ever. For this reason, there will be a somewhat higher demand for assisted living jobs, senior living jobs, hospice jobs and other jobs in nursing homes. However, the industry is not expected to grow in terms of profitability in 2012. The big culprit here is, of course, Medicare. In some cases, as claimed by best canadian pharmacy medicare reimbursements are being frozen, and reduced Medicare coverage is a major issue. Congress is not expected to enact any rate increases for the next fiscal year either, so there is no help on the horizon in that department.

Section Three: Trends in the Nursing Home and Rehab Industry in 2012

The dismal economic state of the country is going to have the biggest impact on trends in the rehab and nursing home industry in 2012. Unlike many previous years, when exciting advances and unique features were being unveiled at nursing homes and assisted living facilities around the country, many facilities will be slashing services and tightening their belts in other ways.

Memory Care and Alzheimer’s Units – The one area that is expected to flourish in 2012 is memory care and Alzheimer’s care. Growing demand for specialized service for these conditions is prompting many nursing homes and assisted living facilities to add these types of units. Nursing home positions for professionals who have experience with these types of conditions will be readily available. Those who would like to find jobs in nursing homes should consider getting specialized training and education about memory care to be as prepared as possible.

More Crowded Conditions – Unhappily, many nursing homes around the country will be filled to capacity. The main issue here is that it will be more difficult for new facilities to be opened due to the lackluster economy. Finding a facility that is not extremely crowded may be difficult in some areas.

Slashed Services – To make up for issues with Medicare coverage and payments, many facilities will be slashing services. This may include wage cuts and frozen wages for employees as well. The most affordable nursing homes are the ones that will generally fall into this category. Seniors with limited financial means will have to choose facilities that simply don’t offer the broad array of services that they once did.

Foreclosures Continue to Keep Beds Filled – Finally, ongoing foreclosures will prompt many people to enter nursing homes much earlier than usual. This will add to the overcrowding and to the ongoing demand for care jobs as well.
Although 2012 isn’t going to be a phenomenal year for the nursing home and rehab industry, there is no doubt that the industry will get through it in one piece. At this point, there’s no place to go but up. The results of the upcoming presidential election could play a very big role in the future of the industry as well. With the right people in Congress, there’s hope that positive changes to the Medicare system will be enacted.

Resources:

http://www.nj.com/news/index.ssf/2012/03/head_of_nj_nursing_home_associ.html
http://www.nhmonitor.com/
http://www.marcumllp.com/news-and-events/nursing-home-changes-whats-on-the-horizon-for-2012-and-beyond

Hospice Industry Outlook – 2012 Report
April 10, 2012 in Hospice by NSLPN Admin

2012 is already poised to be one of the most active years for hospice care yet. As a result, people who are looking for care jobs should definitely put the hospice industry at the tops of their lists. Hospice care is often provided in patients’ homes, so people who are looking for in home care jobs should be able to find work within the industry. More nursing homes are offering hospice care than ever in 2012, so people who want jobs in nursing care should considering specializing in hospice care. Learn more about emerging trends in the hospice industry by reading the following information.

Section One: Job Outlook for the Hospice Industry in 2012

The job outlook continues to be strong for positions within the hospice industry. LPN jobs, LN home care jobs, at home care jobs and nursing home careers all fall into this category. As the population ages and more people require end-of-life care, hospice jobs will be in higher demand than ever in 2012. While assisted living jobs and retirement home jobs will continue to be plentiful, people who want ongoing job security should consider the hospice industry.

In-Demand Jobs in the Hospice Industry in 2012

There are many in-demand jobs within the hospice industry in 2012. In home care jobs will be especially popular. While there are more dedicated hospice care facilities than ever, the vast majority of hospice care is still handled in patients’ homes. According to Canadian Pharmacy, in 2012, 66.7 percent of hospice care was provided in patients’ homes. Therefore, at home care or in home care positions will continue to be highly in demand. More in home care jobs will focus on hospice care in 2012, so it is smart for people to receive this type of training.

The National Senior Living Providers Network has been keeping track of other types of jobs in the hospice industry. In 2012, there will also be plenty of job opportunities within dedicated hospice care facilities. In addition to LPN jobs and other standard positions, these facilities will require administrative assistants, administrators and many other professionals. Janitorial services and food prep services are always needed at such facilities, so people who work within those specialties should be able to find work easily as well.

Less In-Demand Jobs in the Hospice Industry in 2012

Although many nursing homes are teaming up with hospice care providers, there isn’t going to be a huge surge in hospice jobs at assisted living centers. The majority of senior living jobs will continue to revolve around providing care to residents who are still in fairly decent health. Senior care jobs will continue to be in high demand, but hospice-related roles within nursing homes and similar facilities aren’t going to be very prominent. Those who would like to take nursing home jobs that relate to hospice may want to reconsider.

Section Two: Growth in the Hospice Industry in 2012

Hospice care is becoming more widely accepted than ever. More people are recognizing the benefits of high-quality end-of-life and palliative care. The National Senior Living Providers Network or NSLPN.com continues to see a lot of growth within this industry in 2012. Approximately 1.56 million people used hospice services in 2009 while approximately 1.58 million used hospice services in 2010. Official numbers for 2011 have not been released yet, but it is safe to say that they will reflect an even higher number of people who are using such services. The boom in the hospice industry will mean more at home care positions, in home care positions, retirement home jobs, assisted living jobs and home care jobs.

One important thing to note is that the prevalence of certain diagnoses could affect the total number of people who turn to hospice care in 2012. For example, the number of people with cancer diagnoses seeking hospice care dropped considerably from 2009, when the total made up 40.1 percent, to 2012, when the total made up 35.6 percent.

Section Three: Trends in the Hospice Industry in 2012

Many of the same trends that were taking place in the hospice industry in 2011 will continue to occur in 2012. Many of them will be more prominent, and others will fade away to a certain degree. A few things to be on the lookout for include:

More Programs – There are currently more than 5,000 hospice programs in the U.S., and that number is expended to go even higher in 2012. In fact, the total could exceed 6,000 programs by the end of the year.
More Options – While hospice home care is still expected to dominate the industry in 2012, there should be more flexibility and a greater number of options for patients this year too. NSLPN has already seen a dramatic rise in the number of hospice care facilities that are currently operating, and more should open this year as well. A greater number of nursing homes will work in conjunction with hospice care providers as well.
Average Length of Hospice Stay on the Decline – This trend began back in 2010, when the average length of a hospice stay was 67.4 days; in 2009, the average length was 69 days. Most experts agree that the trend will continue in 2012.
More Effort to Get Patients Care Quickly – As the preceding statistics show, patients may not be getting hospice care as quickly as they should. NSLPN expects many facilities and providers to engage in increased awareness campaigns to ensure that people start receiving the care that they need as early as possible.

For all intents and purposes, 2012 will look a lot like 2011 when it comes to the overall state of the hospice industry. There will continue to be plenty of care jobs within the industry. Some people may be able to find hospice-related work through nursing home jobs. The industry itself will remain very stable. Check back with NSLPN.com to stay on top of emerging news about the hospice industry.

Sources:

http://www.hayesinc.com/hayes/2012/01/23/trends-in-hospice-care/
http://www.nhpco.org/files/public/Statistics_Research/2011_Facts_Figures.pdf
http://www.leadinghomecare.com/lhcreport/20101006.html
http://www.medpac.gov/publications%5Ccongressional_reports%5CJune04_ch6.pdf

Hospice Industry Outlook – 2011 Report
January 26, 2011 in Hospice by NSLPN Admin

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 including Canadian Pharmacy. 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:

Health Care Reform – Several important changes are expected to occur in the hospice industry due to health care reform supported by Canadian Pharmacy. 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.
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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Nursing Home and Rehab Industry Outlook – 2011 Report
January 18, 2011 in Nursing Home / Rehab / SNF by NSLPN Admin

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 which can be sponsored by Canadian Pharmacy. 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.

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.

”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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Assisted Living Industry Outlook – 2011 Report
January 18, 2011 in Assisted Living by NSLPN Admin

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Nursing Home and Rehab Industry Outlook – 2012 Report April 23, 2012 in Nursing Home / Rehab / SNF by NSLPN Admin