Key Takeaways
- Underperforming senior communities can often be revitalized through strategic, hands-on management.
- The root causes often stem from misalignment between family expectations and community operations.
- Effective turnaround begins with a full assessment, clear communication, and structured action planning.
- Investing in staff development and implementing quality assurance programs ensures consistent performance.
- Community outreach and marketing strategies help rebuild trust and attract new residents.
Turning Underperforming Communities Into Thriving Success Stories
When a senior living community begins to struggle, the signs are often subtle at first. Occupancy may drop. Staff turnover increases. Family satisfaction dips. These aren’t just routine problems, but deeper issues that need attention. Fortunately, underperforming communities can often be transformed through strategy, leadership, and a hands-on approach to management.
The reality is that underperforming communities often have untapped potential waiting to be discovered. That’s why our team at Kaplan works so hard to help. By identifying the right changes—and making them with care—our team helps communities regain trust, attract new residents, and deliver exceptional care.
What Is an “Underperforming” Community?
Communities don’t fall behind overnight. There are usually patterns that point to deeper issues. The sooner they’re identified, the easier they are to correct.
Common Signs of Declining Performance
You might notice several warning signs when a community isn’t meeting its potential. These indicators often appear gradually, making them easy to overlook until they become significant problems.
If your senior community is experiencing any of the following, it may be time for a closer look:
- Low occupancy rates and high turnover
- Lack of community engagement and social activities
- Staff retention challenges and inconsistent care
- Outdated amenities and maintenance issues
- Poor online reviews and reputation
Each of these signals a disruption in either experience or operations, both of which are critical.
What Are the Root Causes Behind Performance Issues?
Most performance challenges come down to misalignment. Residents aren’t getting what they need, families don’t feel supported, and staff don’t feel equipped. Often, the issues stem from a disconnect between what families need and what the community provides.
Some of the underlying issues we often seek to address include:
- Services that are not aligned with residents’ needs
- Inadequate staff training and support
- Limited marketing reach to target families
- Pricing that doesn’t reflect the value offered
- Lack of a hands-on management approach
- Existing layouts and spaces that are not fully utilized
We’re a family business ourselves, and for us at Kaplan Development Group, that family element of senior living can’t be ignored. We use our resources and connections to help communities better understand the complex needs of aging adults and their families.
Improvement Through Hands-On Management
Improving performance starts with understanding the full picture. Then, it takes clear planning and the right support systems to drive change.
Developing a Comprehensive Assessment Strategy
Before making any changes, you need to understand what’s really happening in the community. This means talking with all the members of the operating team and staff to find what’s working—and what isn’t. Then, we speak with residents and their family members to get a complete picture of the community experience.
A thorough assessment can reveal both obvious problems and hidden opportunities for improvement. By taking the time to gather this information, you’re also showing everyone involved that their experiences matter. That’s a key step towards preserving trust.
Creating Action Plans with Attention to Detail
Once you understand the challenges, you can create realistic plans that address them step by step. The key is being methodical about your approach while staying flexible enough to adjust when needed. A professional development and management partner can also provide the expertise needed to implement comprehensive improvement strategies.
Strengthening Your Team and Operational Excellence
Great care starts with great staff. If your team is under-supported, your performance will be, too.
Investing in Staff Development and Retention
Your team members are the heart of your community. When they feel supported and valued, that positivity spreads to residents and families. This means that creating a workplace where people want to stay makes everything else possible.
Staff who receive proper training and support can provide the compassionate care that families are looking for, which can help you keep occupancy high. Investing in staff training and ensuring that all staff are positioned in the best areas for success are key areas we consider for community management.
Establishing Quality Assurance Programs
Consistent quality comes from having systems in place that monitor and improve care standards. These programs help you catch and address potential issues early before they become bigger problems.
Some of the key aspects of these programs include:
- Regular monitoring of care standards
- Family communication protocols
- Incident reporting and resolution processes
- Continuous improvement based on feedback
When quality systems are in place, performance stays consistent. That means more confidence from both families and referral sources.
Marketing and Community Outreach Strategies
A senior living community is only as strong as its connections. That includes families, referral networks, and the surrounding community.
Connecting with Adult Children and Family Members
Many families feel overwhelmed when searching for senior living options, and they appreciate approachable guidance during this emotional time. When you provide genuine support and information, you’re helping them make informed decisions. However, building relationships with families starts long before they tour your community.
It begins with:
- Developing educational content about senior living options
- Hosting informational seminars for families
- Creating referral programs with healthcare providers
- Building partnerships with local organizations
By positioning your community as a trusted guide, you build credibility and stand out.
Transforming a Community with Help
If your community is underperforming, there are options. With the right team, the right structure, and the right values, we believe almost any community can improve.
Here at Kaplan Development Group, our senior living management team brings decades of experience to the table. We specialize in community turnarounds, operational support, and hands-on strategy. Contact us today, and let us show you what’s possible.
