In the senior care sector, engagement programs are often seen as optional, but experts warn that neglecting these initiatives can lead to compliance issues, dissatisfied residents, and greater liability risks. Activity teams play a critical role beyond organizing events; their work directly affects regulatory compliance and the overall safety of facilities.
The industry has moved from offering passive entertainment to focusing on purposeful engagement for residents. However, there remains a gap between what facilities intend and what they actually provide. The push for better resident engagement began in the 1970s when advocates campaigned for improved standards in nursing homes, shifting away from custodial care toward person-centered services.
This advocacy influenced current regulations by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Specifically, Section F of the Minimum Data Set (MDS) requires nursing facilities to assess and respond to each resident’s activity preferences. This regulation is based on the idea that meaningful engagement improves quality of life, which in turn helps reduce risk.
Facilities that do not prioritize activities face several risk categories. Insurers also pay attention to how well a facility supports resident quality of life. Underwriters look for robust and documented activities programs as indicators of good oversight and safer environments, which can have a positive effect on insurance renewals.
Having an activities director gives facilities an ally in managing risk, but it is important that this role is properly supported with adequate resources and tools. Fully integrating resident engagement into clinical, operational, and risk management strategies benefits both residents and the facility as a whole.
"Resident engagement is more than good care, it's good business. When activities are fully integrated into your clinical, operational, and risk strategies, your residents thrive. And so does your facility."