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Understanding the Value of CARF Accreditation When Choosing Assisted Living

An important topic to address when researching assisted living communities is accreditation, advises Elizabeth Martinez, director of marketing and sales at The Palace Gardens Homestead.

There are many communities to consider and understanding their differences is key. Accreditation is one of the most significant criteria to use when comparison shopping.

The Palace Gardens Homestead has earned the prestigious CARF accreditation. Similar to a five-star rating in the hospitality industry, this certification is the highest level of accreditation that can be awarded to a retirement community and shows the community’s substantial conformance to the advanced values established by CARF.

Being CARF accredited means that the community documented perfect conformance to 1,089 questions in multiple categories of standards established for quality living and meets high standards of excellence as determined by an independent survey.

It is a three-year award and the community must complete a rigorous peer-review process and demonstrate to a team of surveyors that its programs and services are of the highest quality, measurability, and accountability.

CARF International is an independent, non-profit organization delegated to promote quality, value, and optimal service for assisted living communities throughout the nation. A consulting process critiques communities, centering on ways that can enhance the lives of those who reside in them. Founded in 1966, CARF established consumer-focused standards to help measure and improve the quality of assisted living programs and services.

In addition to The Palace Gardens Homestead, The Palace Group’s other communities including The Palace Renaissance & Royale in Kendall are CARF accredited.

To receive this distinguished rating for its communities, The Palace volunteered to undergo a rigorous, on-site inspection and peer review by a survey team to ensure that its programs and services are measured by the accountability demanded by CARF for a three-year accreditation period. The process involved a “person-centered” approach to how well care is performed, by interviewing both residents and family members. CARF commended the staff at the communities on its excellence and concern for residents.

Commenting especially on the welcoming, friendly environment of the community and the sense of satisfaction shared by residents and staff, CARF confirmed the dedication of The Palace to provide exceptional care and services to its residents and their families in a homelike atmosphere.

So by all means, ask “Are you accredited?” in your next visit to an assisted living community. It’s an excellent way to help ensure choosing the right community for your parents.

To learn more about The Palace Gardens Homestead and come for a tour, please call Elizabeth Martinez 305.247.0446.