While laundry might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about the quality of care at a long term care facility, it does play an important role.

Occupancy rates and rents are on the upswing for the seniors housing sectors, according to the National Investment Center for the Seniors Housing & Care Industry (NIC).

This rapidly expanding repository of data offers ample evidence that complements both legend and practical wisdom to better understand the long term care industry and the insight to be gained from the voice of its customers and employees.

No. 1 Emeritus projects that because assisted living is needs-driven, the sector is “relatively resistant to the economic downturns and will continue to benefit from other trends and factors in the industry."

This year's Top 50 providers are moving forward with business models that tout person-centered care and services, despite a tough economic climate.

In many ways, the long term care provider market is considerably ahead of the curve in understanding employee satisfaction, customer satisfaction, and how the two relate.

It should come as no shock to long term care (LTC) providers that credit markets remain tight, limiting the normal flow of financing from private lenders as the economic slowdown continues for a third year, despite some faint signs of recovery.

Provider magazine’s 2010 ranking of the Top 40 Assisted Living Companies reveals that Emeritus holds the No. 1 position. During 2009, the company grew its assisted living operations by two facilities and a total occupant capacity of 300.

Providers continue to renovate facilities and add ancillary or specialty care services, despite a reported lack of available financing. Some 27 companies plan to add rehabilitation suites or units, and seven of the top 50 will add specialty care services such as dialysis, ventilator, or bariatric care.