CARF Accreditation
Green Acres is excited to announce that we have received a three year renewal on our CARF accreditation as of July 1, 2024! This recognition reflects Green Acres Foundation’s commitment to being a “great place to live” and providing excellent care to our senior residents. Green Acres Foundation is reviewed every three years and has proudly received this achievement since 2020. This blog post will cover what CARF accreditation is and why it is important to look for a senior community with this accreditation.
What is CARF Accreditation?
The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) is an independent, international non-profit organization that provides accreditation worldwide, including Canada. CARF focuses on providing accreditation to various health sectors, including senior living. Established in 1966, their mission is “to promote the quality, value, and optimal outcomes of services through a consultative accreditation process and continuous improvement services that center on enhancing the lives of persons served.”
The accreditation process includes an in-depth review of the facilities, including inspections, interviews, and documentation reviews. There are 22 standards that are applicable to Green Acres Foundation, which also includes numerous sub-standards to meet. After the review, CARF will send a report highlighting strengths and improvements and decide on accreditation.
“The achievement of Green Acres Foundation’s accreditation indicates the organization’s dedication and commitment to improving the quality of lives of the people served. CARF looks at the organization as a whole, reviewing practices within the administration office, and practices at the care sites. CARF wants to see that an organization is focused on continuously improving performance and quality of services.” Shelby Stout, Green Acres Foundation Compliance and Training Coordinator
Why You Should Choose a CARF Accredited Senior Living Community
Even though CARF is a voluntary accreditation, not required by the Government of Alberta, Green Acres Foundation believes it is important to meet these high standards to make sure senior residents are receiving the highest quality of care.
“The CARF accreditation identifies opportunities for continuous improvement, a core concept of aspiring for excellence. CARF accreditation is important as it shows our residents, staff, family members, and communities that Green Acres Foundation strives for quality and meaningful care. CARF is thorough and dedicated to only accrediting organizations that show true commitment to quality care. Therefore, this would be beneficial for all those in the senior living communities, as it shows the devotion they share to provide excellent services.” Shelby Stout, Green Acres Foundation Compliance and Training Coordinator.
Green Acres Foundation’s Strengths
All Green Acres Foundation care sites were evaluated: Golden Acres Lodge, Sunny South Lodge, and Piyami Lodge/Piyami Place. CARF highlighted multiple strengths of Green Acres Foundation:
“Green Acres Foundation has a professional and collaborative executive team that is involved in all three assisted living sites.”
“Across all three locations, personnel indicated that both site management and overall organizational leadership is approachable and open to feedback.”
“High resident satisfaction is apparent.”
“Led by a passionate and committed team of activity professionals, the organization offers a creative array of meaningful activities to meet resident needs.”
“Residents are supported by a dedicated team of passionate and caring staff members, many of whom have long tenure with Green Acres Foundation.”
“Dining Services received positive feedback from families and residents.”
More Than a Certificate
CARF accreditation is more than just a certificate, it represents a commitment to excellence in senior living. For families and residents, it offers reassurance that the community they are part of meets high standards of quality and care, ensuring residents live comfortably with dignity, respect, and a high quality of life. For senior communities, it provides a structure for continuous improvement and standards to achieve.
As you explore senior living options, looking for CARF accreditation could be a valuable part making your decision.
If you’d like to learn more about Green Acres senior communities, check out this link: https://www.greenacres.ab.ca/where-to-start
About Green Acres Foundation
Green Acres Foundation is a non-profit housing management body established by the Province of Alberta.
Since 1960, we have provided affordable homes and care services for senior citizens in Southern Alberta.
We believe quality of life matters at every age. That’s why we’re not just a “retirement home”; we’re creating senior living communities with a focus on independence, affordability., quality care, and connection.
With over 20 locations across Southern Alberta, Green Acres Foundation is keeping independent senior living closer to home.