​Long term care has always been about more than health care and housing—it is about honoring the full humanity of every person we serve. In this issue, we explore what that means across two dimensions: the cultural richness our residents bring with them and the evolving payment models reshaping how care is delivered. 

Our first feature article examines the importance of culturally responsive care. Honoring the traditions, foods, languages, and environments that residents hold dear is not a courtesy, but a cornerstone of person-centered care done right.

Our second feature article examines the new models of value-based payments and what providers must do to participate in them successfully. As reimbursement structures continue to shift, preparing for these models is essential to long-term financial sustainability.

This year also marks a milestone worth celebrating: 25 years of NCAL. Our special feature looks back on NCAL’s history of innovation, collaboration, and excellence.

We also welcome Chris Wright as the new board chair for the American Health Care Association. Get to know him, his history, and his vision for the profession. 

In addition, we examine the updated long-stay antipsychotic quality measure and what it means for medication management, and look ahead at NCAL’s priorities around technology, affordability, workforce, and regulation. Be inspired by an uplifting story about honoring therapy graduates with a Progress Parade, and get up to speed on recent Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services compliance guidance and what comes next for providers.

Together, these articles reflect a profession dedicated to the dignity of residents and the pursuit of quality care. As we honor where we have been and look ahead to where we are going, one truth remains constant: exceptional care begins with recognizing the whole person.

Deborah Stadtler
Editor in Chief