Future of Elder Care

COVID-19 has changed the way we look at senior living. It’s forced us to question the structures and policies currently in place — the systems designed to care for our aging population. How and where do seniors prefer to age? Are the current systems reflective of their preferences? How did COVID-19 shed light on the values underpinning these systems? These questions were covered in a recent webinar: The Future of Elder Care in Canada. Presented by The Empire Club of Canada, the webinar gathered experts including: Panelist Linda Knight, CEO at CarePartnersPanelist Dr. Samir K. Sinha, Director of Geriatrics at Sinai Health System and University Health NetworkModerator André Picard, Health Columnist at Globe and Mail With important questions posed by André, Linda and Samir’s insightful conversation revealed how Canada’s healthcare system needs redesigning. From exposing society’s view on elder care, to discussing the effects of COVID-19 to explaining the overwhelming need for home care support — they shared eye-opening information. Let’s take a look. COVID-19 reveals need for home care options Starting the panel with information on COVID-19’s effect on Canada’s seniors, the discussion turned to Linda, who explained the flaws in the country’s healthcare system. Mainly, how the shortage of public support workers (PSWs) and nurses working in home care has increased in recent years, with that trend being further amplified by COVID-19. “The PSW shortage hit us about four or five years ago, but what also has come shortly behind that is the nursing shortage in home care. We’ve lost pace with being able to pay them what they could make in a hospital — so there’s been unintended consequences,” explained Linda.   She continued by noting that when COVID-19 first hit, a large portion of home care nurses made the switch...

Changemakers Series

It’s time to recognize a new wave of senior living leaders! Published by Senior Housing News (SHN) and sponsored by Yardi, the Changemakers series is back for 2021 — highlighting exceptional leadership in the senior living industry. With insights captured through in-depth interviews, this year’s Changemakers are recognized for their unique strategies in navigating industry challenges. And there’s no questioning the obstacles the industry has faced — especially during the pandemic. But these visionaries have pushed forward. They’re utilizing their knowledge and skills to pave a bright future in senior living, and they’re here to share their expertise. Released in batches over the next several months, the first interview is ready for you to explore: Meet Terri Cunliffe Changemaker Terri Cunliffe is President and CEO of Covenant Living Communities & Services, a non-profit operator of senior living communities. Since joining the organization in 1988, Terri has devoted her career to improving the lives of seniors — quickly evolving into the leader she is today. Appointed as COO in 2010 and later CEO in 2015, she’s expanded the efforts of Covenant Living and its many communities, introducing proactive measures every step of the way. And with over three decades of experience, Terri is no stranger to change. In the following excerpt from the SHN interview, see how Terri’s knowledge — and dedication — have proven successful in maneuvering through an ever-changing industry, all while leading Covenant Living’s journey to growth. To be a changemaker, you’ve got to be willing to take risks. Do you agree with that? How would you describe your own risk tolerance? When I think of risk, I think the longer I’m in the role, the more risk I’m willing to take, because I understand the implications of that risk. If we...

Sewing Support Apr22

Sewing Support

It’s tough times like these where the best in people comes to light. In New York, which has emerged as the coronavirus epicenter, one family is doing all they can to support their community. Nancy Nix runs a small sewing business, Wicked Stitches, that closed its doors last month due to the pandemic. But she wasn’t willing to just stand by as the virus spread. An opportunity to help soon came. Her daughter Julia, who serves as a nurse on a COVID-19 floor, asked for surgical caps for herself and her colleagues. So Nancy Nix, whose husband Richard works on the Yardi senior living team, found a pattern and began sewing together with Julia. “People are putting themselves at risk, so you want to help,” said Nancy. “It just feels good to be part of the solution.” After finishing and delivering the first batch, requests for more quickly followed. In the weeks since, they’ve sewn hundreds of caps and face masks for hospital staff. The nurses appreciate the protection, and as a fun bonus, the colorful patterns make it easier to recognize each other when in full uniform. As the requests grew, Nancy spread the word about their project, and dozens responded offering to help sew. Even more have asked how they can support the cause. Wicked Stitches isn’t taking donations, but those interested in paying it forward can purchase and personalize caps for a health care professional. They can also buy rainbow door hangers, an increasingly common show of support for essential workers. Proceeds from both products go towards producing more caps to...

Changemaker Series Nov14

Changemaker Series

For the fifth entry in the Changemakers, the Yardi-sponsored Senior Housing News series that shines a light on senior living’s biggest movers and shakers, we’re taking a look at a leader who founded her own senior living company over three decades ago. And since then, she hasn’t stopped pushing for greater innovation and better quality of care. Lynne Katzmann started Juniper Communities in 1988 to help under-managed skilled nursing facilities, raising capital, monitoring investments and improving daily operations. In the mid-90s, the company pivoted to focus on assisted living, then a new idea in the senior housing industry. They also began to take a more direct hand in running their communities, eventually developing and building a number of their own to meet their high standards. Juniper Communities has now grown to 21 communities in four states, which represent all levels of care from independent to memory to skilled rehab. One of Katzmann’s more recent changemaking initiatives has been Connect4Life, a program that integrates care delivered by Juniper staff and by ancillary clinical providers located in the community. The program gathers essential services under one roof so residents can have faster, more convenient access to care. A key building block of Connect4Life was Juniper’s early adoption of electronic health records (EHR). “By the end of 2012, we had an integrated electronic operating model,” said Katzmann. “And that was pretty revolutionary. We’d always collected data, and we began to be able to use data to drive decisions.” From there, Katzmann was able to establish a model where each resident had their own circle of care providers, all using the EHR system to track details and communicate more effectively with each other. This helped reduce transfers to outside facilities and keep people happier. Now, Katzmann is looking...

Senior Wellness

Socialization is a significant part of senior wellness. By getting the members of the neighborhood involved in activities at your community, you’re offering healthful, value-add services for your seniors that truly make a difference! Below are a few suggestions on how you can improve social opportunities with community support. Animal shelter collaborations are a fun way to expose seniors to the joys of pets without the daily responsibilities of pet ownership. Seniors are able to play with and cuddle their new furry friends, reaping the health benefits of pet interactions. Girl and Boy Scouts projects offer seniors the opportunity to teach and learn from local youth. Contact your local chapters regarding projects such as building raised garden beds, installing rainwater recycling systems, or beautification projects. When seniors have experience in these areas, they are able to feel helpful and knowledgeable. When the experiences are new, senior learners stimulate their brains and feel the invigoration of developing new skills. Student-led tech classes equip seniors with the basic skills needed to stay in touch with the world beyond their senior community. Navigating Zoom and Facetime, for example, allow seniors to stay in touch with loved ones. Computer skills classes make it easier for seniors to take charge of their care curriculum. For today’s students, these skills are second hand and a fun way to get the community service hours they may need for school. Trips to a local ranch for equine therapy come with several advantages: a scenic trip to rural area, the benefits of equine therapy, and the pleasure of artwork and animal interaction. Don’t worry—equine therapy does not mean your seniors must mount the horses! Ask camp leaders if it’s appropriate for seniors to interact with current class members. Serving as a dance recital...

CALA Conference May24

CALA Conference

Looking for a senior living conference that combines the best of practical learning with exciting interactive activities? The California Assisted Living Association (CALA) 2019 Spring Conference and Trade Show is just what you’re looking for. Learn with the Industry’s Brightest The annual CALA Spring Conference and Trade Show is first and foremost an educational event. Its more than 900 attendees learn the latest in emergency preparedness, workforce development, technology, and dementia care. The conference’s theme, Elevate, encourages attendees to explore innovations in senior care. These may be new technologies or innovative approaches that make senior care safer, more efficient, and engaging. Work Hard, Play Hard But that doesn’t mean that CALA is all work and no play! There will be plenty of opportunities for attendees to socialize and get free gear. The Trade Show Breakfast is a new feature this year. In addition to a delicious meal, attendees are encouraged to forge meaningful connections with guests and vendors. Trade Show attendees are invited to visit Yardi at booth #36! After watching a brief demo, guests will also be eligible to win a portable Bose Bluetooth headphones On Tuesday, the Cocktails with a View reception provides an opportunity for conference attendees to network in a scenic environment. The event takes place at the Ferrantes Bay View Ballroom on the top floor of the Monterey Marriott. Enjoy a breathtaking panorama of the Monterey Bay will enjoying cocktails and camaraderie. The final day of the conference marks the Award Luncheon, which honors the state’s leaders, visionaries, and altruists. Awards given will include The Excellence in Service Award for Outstanding Caregiver, Team Member, Department Director, and Executive Director; and The Culinary Knockout Champion. “Yardi is proud to sponsor the CALA Awards Luncheon,” said Ray Elliott, vice president of...

Senior Living 100 Feb21

Senior Living 100

Yardi is proud to sponsor the 2019 Lincoln Healthcare Senior Living 100 conference! This invitation-only event combines today’s best practices with tomorrow’s promising innovations. About Senior Living 100 Since 1998, Lincoln Healthcare has inspired excellence in strategy and modernization in the increasingly value-based system of senior care. To achieve this, Lincoln Healthcare owns and operates five executive conferences for AL/IL and CCRC industry leaders. Each event fosters visionary education, peer networking, and memorable experiences. Get Involved! The forward-looking educational program at Senior Living 100 reveal opportunities for growth amongst its community of talented attendees. Lincoln Healthcare’s thought leaders invite participants to explore the latest trends and forecasts. This year’s theme, Creating Blue Skies: Entrepreneurial Opportunities for Senior Care, will focus on improving existing business models in preparation for the future of senior living. Rapid learning techniques will help attendees retain a solid understanding of content that is “forward-looking,” “candid,” “change-oriented,” and “super productive.” Participants can cap off information-rich days with fun-filled evenings. The Executive Golf Tournament at the Oceanfront Monarch Beach Golf Links is a par 70 Scottish links-style course that challenges novice and experienced golfers alike. A relaxing sailing regatta or adrenaline-pumping flight simulator are also on the agenda. Each day offers a new adventure! The spouse program enriches the conference experience. Significant others can enjoy the resort and sightseeing in the beautiful town of Laguna Niguel. Participants are also invited to attend all recreation, activities, and dinners with conference participants. Connect with Yardi Senior Living  at the Lincoln Health Care Senior Living 100 conference at the Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel in Dana Point, California on March 10-13,...

Yardi Partners with NIC Nov01

Yardi Partners with NIC

Lack of transparency around pricing in the senior living industry is a known frustration. A simple web search reveals hundreds of articles lamenting how difficult it is to find the answer to a simple question when researching elder care communities: How much does it cost to live there? Would-be residents and their families crave this information. In fact, 68% of residents and 75% of family members and caregivers complain about a lack of pricing transparency within senior living communities. But seniors and their loved ones aren’t the only group grappling with a lack of clarity around costs. Senior living providers themselves struggle to acquire data on actual rates being charged within the industry. This information gap has resulted in operators paying a premium for capital—and passing that expense on to residents. To combat pricing obscurity, the National Investment Center for Seniors and Housing Care (NIC), partnering with Yardi, launched the Seniors Housing Actual Rates Initiative, which reveals actual rates and leasing activity submitted by senior living operators for the very first time. Many communities have already committed to providing monthly data feeds to NIC for the Actual Rates Initiative, covering more than 250,000 senior housing units nationwide. This new pricing data, available within the NIC Map Data service, will provide myriad benefits for senior housing and care sector providers—and some for residents—including: Reduced cost of capital Because senior housing is considered a “non-core” real estate class, operators and developers pay a premium for capital. Disclosing actual rates paid increases parity between senior housing and other traditional property types and could help lower the cost of capital. Reduced cost for consumers A lower cost of capital for investors and operators has a two-fold effect on consumers: First, with lower overhead, residents and families will see downstream cost savings. Additionally, a reduced cost of ownership has the potential to increase the customer base for senior housing, and with increased demand comes lower rents for residents. Benchmarking Through the NIC initiative, operators can anonymously feed their actual rates data, via Yardi software, then compare their pricing versus other communities on a national level. To date, operators use “rate card” pricing, driven by estimates rather than concreate pricing data. Shortened sales cycle NIC aims to gather enough data to report actual leasing rates at the metro level, allowing operators to adjust pricing accordingly and competitively discount rates, potentially converting prospects to residents more rapidly. NIC is the first to collect and report on this data, providing critical information to operators and investors, and Yardi is thrilled to be a partner. Visit nic.org/analytics/actual-rates-initiative to learn more about the Actual Rates...

Empowering Nurses Oct12

Empowering Nurses

Dennis McCarthy, chief information officer at Florida’s SRI Management, knows that nurses are critical to providing quality care for residents. Keeping clinical staff happy means making sure they’ve got the tools they need to do their jobs as easily and efficiently as possible. That starts with ensuring they have access to the most accurate, up-to-date patient health records. “Satisfying nurses is the number one thing. You don’t want them on a separate system; once you have people on two systems you have all sorts of issues—nurses are trying to figure out which record is current and things like that. Integration to the core software is critical,” McCarthy explained. That’s why SRI, already successfully using several modules in the Yardi Senior Living Suite, adopted Yardi EHR and eMAR last July. “We just had nurses watch it in action,” said McCarthy. Once the staff got their first look, they were hooked. The team began using EHR right away to record resident incidents. Documentation was simple and everything that was logged was immediately appended to residents’ files in the database and kept as part of their permanent record. But the best part was that all the information was readily available after the fact, said Casey Polk, chief nurse and director of resident services. She finds that feature indispensable. “At my fingertips in the Yardi platform, I have easy access to what nurses wrote and charted about each incident and how it was handled. I can quickly pull up the chart and read the notes and have all the information on hand. And I love that the software also has reports on resident activity, new orders and missed medications. It allows me to follow up with my staff based on what has or hasn’t been charted that week,”...

Redefining Aging Oct04

Redefining Aging

The LeadingAge Annual Meeting and EXPO is set to take place October 28-31 in Philadelphia at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. With 4,500 attendees expected and over 150 educational sessions offered, it will be a bustling few days filled with networking and new ideas. The conference schedule also features thought-provoking speakers, including renowned photographer Annie Leibovitz, who seeks to capture the beauty of aging. Her talk is called the “Inspire keynote,” and as the first woman to hold an exhibition at Washington’s National Portrait Gallery and an exhibitor at the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery, Annie Leibovitz has inspired many throughout her nearly-fifty-year career. She’s photographed hundreds of world-famous faces and is an expert at capturing not only a beautiful image, but her subject’s story as well. It’s why Ms. Leibovitz has become so renowned for her stunning portraits: they depict a lifetime of experiences, without any negative perceptions of aging—a rare thing in a society with narrowly defined beauty norms. To some, growing older comes with a stigma. Instead of appreciating each wrinkle as a sign of a life well lived, lines are fretted over, gray hair is dyed. To challenge the perceptions of aging, conference attendees will be encouraged to contemplate and redefine what it means to grow old with appreciation, grace and dignity. The event EXPO, the largest in the senior living industry, will close out the conference. In addition to exhibiting the latest goods and services, the EXPO features a special exhibit to demonstrate a day in the life of a future resident. Attendees will experience various resident scenarios—like living with dementia—via an immersive virtual reality simulation to inspire innovation and creativity. LeadingAge Annual Meeting attendees can schedule time to meet with the Yardi senior living team to learn more about its...

OHCA Convention Sep09

OHCA Convention

Senior Living is headed to Portland as the Oregon Health Care Association (OHCA) hosts its Annual Convention & Trade Show, the largest long-term care conference in the state, on September 17 and 18. The event, expected to draw 1,200 attendees including owners, regional managers, administrators, nurses, department heads and direct care staff, takes place at the Oregon Convention Center. This year’s theme, “Experience the Music of Life,” is inspired by senior living staff and communities that encourage residents to live rich lives and enjoy each moment. A musical thread will weave its way throughout the conference: participants can observe music therapy best practices during the featured Music & Memory luncheon, which focuses on the use of music as a non-pharmacological remedy for residents facing challenges. Attendees are also invited to join the fun at an 80s themed dinner and karaoke event. The convention is set to close with an awards ceremony sponsored by Yardi. Keynote speaker Eddie Slowikowski, gold medal winner for the USA track and field team, will open the event with an address that encourages attendees be the best version of themselves in order to be stronger leaders. Over forty informative sessions, including many earmarked for continuing education units, are on the convention schedule. View complete session in the conference brochure. While exploring the trade show exhibitors, attendees are invited to discover Yardi’s single connected solution for senior living by visiting Booth...

Argentum Summit Sep01

Argentum Summit

Thought leaders and influential policy makers are headed to the annual Argentum Chief Executive Summit hoping to uncover ways to foster innovation and address the most significant business issues affecting the future of the senior living industry. The event is set to take place Wednesday and Thursday, September 12-13, in Boston, Massachusetts. A benefit of Premier Membership with Argentum, the summit provides networking opportunities as well as informational sessions and a lineup of inspiring guests. Speakers include Congresswoman Katherine Clark, Sociobiologist Rebecca Costa and Senior Economist and Policy Advisor Dr. Christopher Foote, among others. Program highlights include sessions focused on the impact of the economy on senior living workforce trends, midterm policy implications, the changing face of media communications and technology, in the form of a senior living science fair. Participants will also tour the MIT Media Lab, an interdisciplinary research laboratory at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and take a private riverboat cruise on the Charles River. Attendees can schedule time to meet with Yardi to learn more about its single connected solution for senior living...

Streamlined Success Aug30

Streamlined Success

With seventeen communities—and more on the way—each submitting 100-200 invoices a month, Linda Adams was shuffling a lot of paper. As the Accounting Manager for Northbridge Companies, a New England-based senior living provider, much of her time used to be spent digging up receipts or tracking down paper records across various decentralized offices. “When I had questions, I had to call another office and ask them. They’d have to find the invoice, scan it, send it to me for review. It was very time consuming on both ends.” But now, solving a discrepancy is “easy, easy, easy,” thanks to Yardi PAYscan. In 2011, Northbridge adopted Yardi’s Procure to Pay vendor management and electronic invoicing platform to streamline invoicing across all properties. The new system allowed the accounting department to access invoices and check whether payments had cleared without having to pick up the phone to call another office. In other words, team members could self-serve, reducing internal dependencies and churn. But time savings wasn’t the only benefit of a new system. PAYscan eliminates copying, mailing, and storing paper—and minimizes touch points that can lead to lost invoices and data entry errors. “There’s no need for us to use up valuable office space with paper invoices anymore when it’s all right there electronically. Once the tax returns are done, we can throw the documents out,” Linda says. “I can go back and look at invoices from 2012, and it’s right there. Plus, I work from home a few days a week, and it really cuts down on all that lugging paper back and forth.” The Northbridge team appreciates PAYscan’s versatility, too. “You can make the approval process as intricate or as easy as you want, which I love,” said Linda. Customizable workflows, flexible payment options...

Senior Citizens’ Day Aug17

Senior Citizens’ Day...

With new holidays and observances cropping up all the time, can be hard to keep track. But there’s one upcoming celebration not to be missed: Senior Citizens’ Day, marked each year on August 21. While thinking of ways to honor the special seniors in your life, let’s recall the origin of this important observance. It began with a proclamation by Ronald Reagan on August 19, 1988. Our former President lauded the achievements of our nation’s elders, thanked them for their leadership, and highlighted the ways in which older people, living longer and fuller lives than ever, continue to make their presence felt for their own good, and that of others. As we consider all the seniors we know and what they’ve contributed to our lives and to our society, it’s important to think about what we can give back. The Senior Citizens’ Day proclamation addressed this too: We can best demonstrate our gratitude and esteem by making sure that our communities are good places in which to mature and grow older— places in which older people can participate to the fullest and can find the encouragement, acceptance, assistance and services they need to continue to lead lives of independence and dignity. The words proclaimed decades ago still hold true. The most important way we can repay those who came before us is to ensure they’re well taken care of in the communities in which they now reside. How much progress have we made in the thirty years that have passed since these words were penned? While we still have opportunities to better the senior living industry, today’s seniors have more choices for quality care than ever before. From luxury independent living to high-tech, patient-focused care regimens, residents are no longer resigned to just a...

Making Life Easier

It’s 6:30pm. Your senior resident’s daughter has made it through traffic just in time to pick up her son from band practice. Now she’s got to rush to the pharmacy to pick up your resident’s refill and make it to the community in time for her father’s evening application. But before she does that, she has to visit your leasing office to pay the rent and remind the agent about the leak in the bathroom–all before the office closes at 7pm. While she is driving, exhausted and stressed, she gets a call from her friend. Her friend’s mother is in a comparable senior living community that offers rent payments, maintenance requests, and an ability to communicate with clinicians through an easy-to-use online portal. That portal can be accessed on any mobile device. Your resident’s daughter is suddenly having second thoughts about your property—and rightly so! Our busy lives benefit from the modern conveniences of digital and mobile services. Senior care is no different. The RentCafe Senior Living portal helps users achieve greater work-life balance through improved daily efficiencies and conveniences. For Families RentCafe Senior Living offers time savings and ease-of-use for family members. Users can manage payments, make maintenance service requests. and even track progress on maintenance orders. They will know when the issue is resolved and their loved one is living comfortably again without making a dozen calls to your office. RentCafe Senior Living connects seamlessly with CRM, EHR and mobile tools. Families can effortlessly request updates from the community regarding prescription refills, review health information and communicate with care providers on their loved one’s progress. With these tools, site visits are for time with loved ones, not resolving issues and running errands. Through the online portal, family members can even check out...

RentCafe Reach Jul06

RentCafe Reach

We’re excited to announce that the advanced marketing services of RentCafe Reach are now available to our senior living clients. What is RENTCafé Reach? RENTCafé Reach is a set of advanced marketing services designed to help you attract more prospects to your communities. Our team of property marketing experts is available to help you with search engine optimization (SEO), pay-per-click advertising (PPC) and enhanced online listings. As a certified Google Partner, we’re ready to optimize your search and lead generation efforts. Because RentCafe Reach integrates with RentCafe and Yardi Voyager, you get accurate reporting and complete transparency into your data. SEO & PPC Services for the Real Estate Industry The RENTCafé Reach digital marketing team is comprised of Google certified experts in both Google AdWords for paid traffic and Google Analytics for organic traffic. This allows us to use Google as resource to answer questions and identify future opportunities. Our SEO services include: Optimized on-page content, page titles and meta descriptions Off-page optimization, including business citation and brand management Location data management through our partnership with Yext Regular website health audits and maintenance Monthly reporting, service calls and a dedicated account manager Comprehensive reporting to track results Our PPC services include: Strategic PPC advertising tailored to your goals Campaign management by Google AdWords Certified Specialists Ad targeting based on demographics, location, timing and mobility Ad extensions and landing pages to increase conversions Retargeting campaigns that follow engaged prospects We use white hat strategies, helping our clients improve website performance while actively protecting them against black hat techniques that get flagged by search engines. Stay Ahead of the Competition We understand how daunting it is to launch or manage a digital marketing program. And the challenges of working alone without experienced guidance. What is a...

Senior Living

Without the right tools, running a senior living community is extremely challenging. Piles of paperwork can be overwhelming, and manual data entry can cause errors. When care staff get bogged down with administrative tasks, they have less time to spend with residents. In your back office, the accounting team spends time chasing down billing and cutting paper checks. These inefficiencies add up to become costly for your organization. But, here’s some great news: the Yardi Senior Living Suite is a single software platform that lets you connect, control, track and improve all aspects of your business. Watch a video about senior living software Here are three key ways the Yardi Senior Living Suite can transform your senior living operations: Centralize data to work more efficiently Lower your total cost of ownership, reduce paper and improve your bottom line by managing resident care, finance, operations and marketing with a single connected solution that begins with Yardi Voyager Senior Housing, a property management and accounting platform designed specifically for senior living. Having all of your operational and resident information centralized in one secure, cloud-hosted database with mobility enables complete oversight across your business, instant data access and more responsive care services. Optimize care and improve oversight Gain real-time executive healthcare oversight, keep resident health records free of errors, limit your liability and improve resident satisfaction with Yardi EHR, a full-service electronic health record solution specifically designed for the needs of senior living providers. Get advanced clinical reporting with detailed analytics and instant access to financial data. Customize your care billing options and provide flexible, individual rate plans. Allow caregivers to spend more time with residents and eliminate errors with simplified record keeping that includes easy information sharing at the point of care and a mobile app...

Starting Out Smart Jun18

Starting Out Smart

Clearwater Living is new to the senior living real estate market, but the Southern California-based developer and owner/operator of new senior communities aims to set standards for high quality resident and employee experiences in every market it enters. As they  opened their first three communities, and prepare to manage more independent senior communities  Clearwater Living wanted to start off with a strong technology platform. After analyzing the options in the marketplace, the Yardi Senior Living Suite was the right choice. Breck Austin, VP Support Services for Clearwater Living, knew of Yardi’s strong reputation in the real estate technology space from his work at prior employers. Though Austin had never been a Yardi user before, he knew that the reputation of the company’s platforms was tremendous for meeting a myriad of business needs, from resident services to the back office. “As we grow our company and the systems we use, one of the questions we faced was how to best support the next generation of senior living residents coming into our communities with robust technology and systems,” Austin said. “We wanted to be able to easily communicate to residents about our lifestyle programs and engage them into enjoying our restaurant venues. We wanted them to see their statements and pay bills, and provide their families access to those resources. We knew that what would provide the highest resident and associate satisfaction was a fully integrated system, so Yardi was our answer.” The RentCafe Senior Living resident portal for family and resident provides access to records, statements and care details which was one of the main factors that led Clearwater Living to pick Yardi as its software provider. “To have your medical records, your electronic health care records, all housed in one place with your accounting...

CALA Conference May25

CALA Conference

If you’re attending the California Assisted Living Association (CALA) 2018 Spring Conference & Trade Show, along with 800 other professionals who will engage in important issues and explore opportunities for the assisted living industry, Yardi is excited to see you there. With the theme “elevate,” to acknowledge that senior living professionals are continually seeking ways to improve and enhance their services, the event is set for June 4-6 at the Hyatt Regency Sacramento and Sacramento Convention Center in California. Assisted living, memory care and continuing care resident community operators come together at CALA’s spring conference to participate in active learning, engage in critical discussions, and hear from outstanding presenters with a broad range of expertise within and outside the profession. Sessions will cover resident and dementia care knowledge and practices, legal and regulatory awareness, leadership and staff culture along with sales and marketing strategies. Attendees expect to walk away with ready-to-use information, ideas, and best practices that both challenge and inspire them. In addition to not-to-be-missed educational sessions, the conference also provides networking and socializing opportunities including a wine tasting event on Monday, June 4 and a cocktail reception on Tuesday, June 5. Yardi is sponsoring the luncheon general session on Wednesday, June 6 at 12:15, where featured speakers Matthew Emerzian and Cindy McCann will discuss “Creating a ‘You Matter’ Culture” that touches both residents and employees in assisted living organizations. View complete details about the luncheon, speakers and sessions in the conference brochure. While exploring the trade show exhibitors, you’re invited to discover Yardi’s single connected solution for senior living by visiting Booth 50, and while you’re there, enter for a chance to win a Bose Bluetooth Speaker. We look forward to meeting you in...

Argentum

Don’t miss the Argentum Senior Living Executive Conference and Expo on May 14-16, 2018. This year’s event will take place in sunny San Diego. The Conference Join more than 2,700 of your fellow C-level executives for three days packed with informative sessions and networking opportunities. Sessions covered include memory care, technology, hiring and management, safety, market trends and much more. Yardi’s Michael Remorenko will discuss the white paper, Senior Living Data Security. Attendees will learn how to safeguard sensitive data from online attacks and third-party hacks. Since 2015, data breaches have increased by 17.7 percent. Personally identifiable information (PII) such as social security and credit card numbers are valuable to criminals. Private information can be used to forge prescriptions, open new lines of credit and other offenses. Remorenko will present on the industry’s best practices—as well as groundbreaking advancements—that keep seniors’ data safe. For more information, visit Remorenko’s session on Wednesday, May 16, 2018 at 7:45am to 8:15am. The Expo You can explore Yardi’s latest offerings for senior living at our expo booth. The Expo showcases the latest solutions by leaders in senior living products and services. Yardi will have a 20 x 30 booth where guest are encouraged to test-drive Yardi’s senior living suite. Get answers to your questions about product offerings and how they can enhance your organization. Between the conference and the expo, there is a lot to do! Keep your schedule organized with the My Show Planner. This planning tool allows users to research exhibitors, schedule appointments, and add sessions to your itinerary. After the Show San Diego, the nation’s eighth largest city, has tons to offer visitors. The San Diego Convention Center, places guests in the center of the action. A short walk places conference attendees on the doorstep...

Providence Place May14

Providence Place

“You can’t manage what you don’t measure,” says Gino Gentile, VP of sales and customer service for senior living provider Providence Place of Pennsylvania. Providence Place needed integrated software to handle lead management at its five senior living properties. It became clear to Gentile that streamlining Providence Place’s operations on a centralized platform would help the company further enhance its marketing and sales performance. The solution was Yardi Senior CRM, part of the Yardi Senior Living Suite. Yardi Senior CRM enables senior living providers to increase occupancy and boost resident retention with mobile-friendly sales and marketing tools specially designed for senior living. With Yardi Senior CRM, senior living providers can enhance lead management and improve the marketing and sales process with customized dashboards and comprehensive reporting. Integration with the entire Yardi Senior Living Suite ensures data accuracy and lead tracking from initial point of contact through resident activity. According to Gentile, Providence Place has achieved substantial occupancy gains while using Yardi Senior CRM at all five of its senior living communities. Gentile elaborated that the addition of Yardi Senior CRM to the company’s Yardi Voyager platform has been a breakthrough, helping to increase sales. In addition to higher tour to close ratios and faster lead conversion, Gentile points to the software’s reminder features, customized dashboards and comprehensive reporting as essential to the company’s invigorated performance. Gentile said Yardi Senior CRM has helped the company achieve impressive occupancy gains — that have exceeded its goals — along with phenomenal sales growth. “Occupancy is up at all our communities.” Gentile added that the company’s improved resident retention is supported by the tools and solutions provided by its entire Yardi platform. Providence Place also received great implementation support from Yardi and was up and running quickly which...

Yardi Senior Forum Apr25

Yardi Senior Forum

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – The Yardi Senior Living Forum kicked off two days of classes and networking with an insightful presentation from Argentum President and CEO James Balda, who revealed two of the most pressing challenges facing the senior living industry. Argentum, the leading trade organization for senior living, was formerly called the Assisted Living Federation of America (ALFA). The organization recently changed its name to reflect the evolving nature of the industry, Balda shared. Senior living communities now encompass multiple lifestyles and care standards, which require a broader definition than simply “assisted living.” Argentum, which means silver in Latin, is intended to reflect the clientele the industry serves as well as the organization’s intent to set leading standards for senior living communities across the nation. With the “silver tsunami” of aging Baby Boomers set to have a major impact over the next decade, there will be an increased focus on senior housing and care. But right now, the industry faces two major challenges, Balda revealed: labor shortfalls and declining occupancy. “We are struggling everywhere, in all markets around the country, to find talent,” he said. The industry currently employs around 1 million people, but in the next 7 years will need to hire 1.2 million more. Around 900,000 of those will be replacements for existing staff due to the industry’s high turnover rate in a tight labor market. The additional 300,000 will be new hires to meet the needs of aging Baby Boomers. “Senior living isn’t really seen as a career path. Nobody is waking up in the morning as a kid and saying ‘I want to go into senior living for my career,’” Balda said. But the good news is that senior living does have a compelling mission as an industry and...

Senior Living Retention Apr19

Senior Living Retention

There is a perception that senior living residents are a captive audience. That’s not entirely true. Enhancements to dining and lifestyle services are a retention strategy for when residents and their families sit down to sign lease renewals. Let the value-add services that you offer outshine your competition. Unique Experiences Offer residents an experience that they can’t get when living with competitors. Think beyond crafts and day trips. Create experiences that allow residents to learn new skills and engage all their senses. (Instant-gratification is an added bonus!) Oregon-based Frontier offers an on-location craft beer brewery at its Aspen Ridge community.  More than 80 percent of the residents work to create 12 beer varieties. The residents then enjoy the fruit of their labor every evening in the site’s biergarten. The program offers learning, experimentation, creativity, social interaction, and a sense of accomplishment. Aspen Ridge once hovered at 50 percent occupancy. After one year with the beer program, the property achieved and maintained 100 percent occupancy. Greg Roderick, president and CEO of Frontier Management explains, “We didn’t advertise any more than we already did. We just filled up. Word of mouth got around… [that] this is the coolest place to live.” Signature Products Consider working with local artisans to offer products that residents can’t get anywhere else. These products build a sense of brand loyalty and exclusivity for your property. Chicago-based Vi Living is the exclusive seller of Luxus, a signature label wine that residents have grown to love. The collaboration with Central Valley wineries has turned a dinner accent into a highlight at its properties. “I’m a big proponent of happiness at our property,” says Kevin Meredith, director of dining service at TidePointe, a Vi Community.  “And having a wine that’s all our own — one that brings the exceptional into the everyday — is just another way to create that happiness.” Vi Living serves its wine in property restaurants. Each restaurant offers the variety and ambiance found at high-end restaurants off of the property which makes it a pleasure for residents to “dine in.” Giving Back Many seniors want to stay involved in their communities. This involvement removes a sense of isolation. In its place, residents feel needed, vibrant, and a productive part of their communities. Yardi client Senior Star of Oklahoma participates in the annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s. The event began with the Senior Star staff yet is open to residents as well. The relevance of the event will likely grow. Baby Boomers often serve as caregivers for loved ones with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. The fundraising event will be near and dear to many hearts. “The Walk To End Alzheimer’s provides a beacon of hope to those individuals and families coping with the terrible disease,” says Tyler Hanes, Project Director at Senior Star. When residents are able to contribute to their communities, they form tighter bonds and build...