I’m often asked how nursing homes and assisted living communities can improve profitability. When I suggest they train their dining staff, many senior care managers are skeptical. When I cite the research, they are surprised. Yes, it really does pay to training servers. This month, I wrote about why for RetirementHomes.com.

by Cindy Heilman, MS, DTR     Published at RetirementHomes.com

One of the most common questions I receive from administrators of senior living communities is, “Does it pay to train the dining staff?” That’s understandable, given current market conditions, high rates of staff turnover, and tight budgets. The answer is a resounding, “Yes!” Study after study, and my personal experience working with communities across the country, shows high-quality training pays off in major ways.

• When residents are satisfied with dining, they are more satisfied with your organization overall. Residents spend up to 60% of their day focused on meals—either preparing for a meal, going to meals, eating, or returning from meals. Research shows mealtimes are so important to residents that if they enjoy eating in your community, they are more satisfied overall with living there. Satisfied residents are more likely to recommend your community to their friends. [more]

To learn more about how to turn the dining experience at your retirement community into a major company asset, read: Hospitality for Boomers: How to attract residents, retain staff, and maximize profitability.