Senior Care Industry Challenges & Opportunities - The senior care industry faces a cycle of despair, decay, and death in traditional facilities, exacerbated by events like COVID-19 [4][5][6] - Current systems often prioritize policy compliance over individual needs, leading to subpar care and restrictions on personal freedoms [10][13][14] - Licensing standards can inadvertently hinder personalized care, forcing choices between compliance and resident well-being [13][15] - Staffing ratios in licensed facilities (e g, 1 staff per 8 residents) can lead to caregiver burnout and high turnover [16][17] Family-Based Care Model Advantages - Family-based care offers a more authentic and fulfilling environment for seniors, caregivers, and families [8][9][24][25] - Integrating multiple generations (e g, seniors and children) can create opportunities for both to thrive, as supported by studies [19][20] - Saying "yes" to residents' desires and providing personalized care can improve their quality of life, stave off depression, and reduce aggression [22][23] - Family-based care allows for greater flexibility in providing care, such as full bed rails or allowing nursing mothers to bring their babies to work [13][14] Call to Action - Rethink end-of-life care and confront mortality to build a life to the final breath, empowering loved ones with connection rather than burdening them with difficult decisions [28] - Actively seek out or create care models that prioritize love, honor, integrity, and family, exceeding existing licensing standards [29][30][31]