What’s happening: Earlier this week, The Washington Post published an investigative series, “Memory Inc.” on assisted living providers. The series includes articles on fatal elopements (including two in Virginia), REIT ownership, and state regulations.

To reassure families and residents who may have read the series, NCAL prepared a template letter you can distribute to let them know the safety, wellbeing, and happiness of their loved one and all residents is your priority.

About the series: The Washington Post pulled media and inspection reports documenting elopements—both fatal and non-fatal—over the past five years from around the country.

• They are looking at a variety of issues within the profession, including the lack of federal regulations/national standards, staffing shortages and staff training requirements, rising resident acuity, fines and penalties for elopements, consumer-facing information and transparency, financials including profits and REITs, and political contributions and activities.

Articles (Metered paywall, subscription required)

• Dozens Of Assisted-Living Residents Died After Wandering Away Unnoticed
• Senior Homes Left Dangerously Understaffed Amid Assisted-Living Boom
• Accountability In Elder Care: What Questions Do You Have On Assisted Living?
• Facilities Where Seniors Died After Walking Away Or Being Left Unattended
• How Your State Regulates Assisted-Living Facilities
• Questions To Ask Before Choosing An Assisted Living Facility

If you receive media inquires about the series, you may contact Amy Hewett for talking points or support in responding.