Why the Not-for-Profit Difference Matters
Although the types of care and services provided by LeadingAge Texas members may vary, all are identical in one primary sense: they are not-for-profit. These providers have a long tradition of community service and concern, and these values drive the delivery of care and services. Their nonprofit approach places emphasis on providing an atmosphere of fellowship and caring; meeting the social, physical and spiritual needs of the individual; and helping older persons preserve the dignity and quality of life they deserve in their retirement years. They offer a commitment to quality that stems from a mission of service and history of compassion which has become the hallmark of the not-for-profit aging services provider. Click here to learn more about the nonprofit responsibility.
Not-for-Profits: There Is a Difference:
Texas not-for-profit providers and caregivers are leading the way towards a greater purpose of helping older Texans age safely in the place they call home with innovative care and services, while treating each resident with dignity and respect.
‣ Commitment to Quality
Not-for-profit providers of aging services offer a commitment to quality that stems from a mission of service and a history of compassion.
A major study of nursing home quality in the U.S. and Canada found that not-for-profits consistently delivered better outcomes in four key areas relating to quality:
- More or higher quality of staffing
- Lower prevalence of pressure ulcers
- Lower prevalence of restraints
- Fewer government citations for deficiencies
‣ Commitment to Person-Directed Care
The latest evolution in senior services revolves around respecting the needs and desires of the individual, rather than fitting the individual to traditional patterns of the facility. Many not-for-profit providers are at the forefront of this change.
‣ Commitment to Staff
As part of its mission, a not-for-profit organization recognizes that staff satisfaction and commitment are related to sufficient numbers of staff, fair wages and benefits, work flexibility when needed, continuing education/growth opportunities and an environment of respect.
‣ Commitment to Ongoing Improvement
Not-for-profit organizations are committed to innovation and continuous quality improvement, with a goal of improving the entire field of aging services. They tailor housing, health care and community services to address unmet needs within our communities.
Not-for-profit organizations have been at the forefront of improving services for older persons, pioneering the introduction of new options such as “small house” nursing centers. Not-for-profits also have been driving important reforms, including reductions in the use of restraints and psychotropic drugs in nursing centers.
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Starting your search...
Searching for housing and service options in later life can be a daunting task. This website is intended to assist in the process by explaining the various types of services that make up the long term care continuum, identifying questions to consider when selecting care, listing resources for further information, and allowing you to search for options by city/town and by type of care setting.
One important question to ask in searching for housing and services is whether the organization is not-for-profit. Knowing the answer will yield a great deal of information.
Why Not-for-Profit?
First, it tells you that the organization's primary purpose is to meet a community need. Any margins or profits generated are redirected to enhance the services provided, not to enrich shareholders. Further, it tells you that the organization is governed by a volunteer board whose interest is to serve the community. Many have roots extending back generations and were established by religious, ethnic, government and fraternal organizations. Not-for-profits continue to fill gaps between personal needs and public response. Most are innovators in service organization and delivery.
Second, not-for-profits put quality first. Even though most services for the elderly must comply with relevant laws and regulations, not-for-profit providers go beyond what is required. This is evident in how resources are allocated, such as increased staffing and higher wages for direct care staff. Quality is paramount in not-for-profit organizations, and it is reflected in countless ways from emphasizing individual attention, to creating community and belonging, to encouraging activity and independence as ability permits.
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