Obtaining capital to keep one's long-term care operation running smoothly and improving is always a challenge. But there are times when an operator should consider going in the other direction — exiting the market. This special article offers expert insight on how to gauge when it's time to sell or consider selling.

Transportation for anyone in a rural or sub-rural setting — especially long-term care providers — can be challenging. More planning and top-notch strategic investments are needed, many observers believe. Industry experts reflect here how to gain efficiencies and obtain suitable vehicles for rural resident transport programs.

Staffing costs dominate budget concerns in many long-term care facilities, yet, ironically, staffing software and management systems do not. The efficiencies gained and the problems averted with appropriate software can mean the difference between success, mediocrity and failure. Experts give their top tips here.

All long-term care nurses and aides need to consider themselves wound care "specialists." It also helps if caregivers can get residents engaged in facets of their own wound care. Experts advise here on some of the best ways to get residents involved effectively.

Lenders are used to dealing with a provider's numbers to determine who gets a loan and who doesn't. But they also want to know there are good people on the provider end, and that includes chief financial officers. Here are some lender tips for how providers can know whether their CFO is a real "keeper."

Done haphazardly, wound care can cost a provider dearly in terms of resident health and liability. From proper initial assessment and ongoing monitoring to 24/7 quality care and treatment, wound care is one of the most important functions for any long-term care operator. Experts advise how to do it well here.

The buoyancy, support and resistance of water offers one of the simplest healing environments. Water therapy can provide a fun yet beneficial way of helping residents maintain flexibility and mobility. So it is no surprise aquatic therapy is taking on a renewed, expanded role in long-term care rehabilitation. But such programs require much more than the presence of a pool and a lifeguard.

Resident safety systems in long-term care facilities have at once seemed to become both simpler and more complex. Their capabilities have certainly expanded, which has opened the door for more opportunities to run into operational challenges. Industry experts advise here on how to avoid potential pitfalls of implementation.

Medical indicators might be only half the battle when it comes to executing a successful incontinence care plan. Another major component is attitude and emotional state. Caregivers need to know how to keep residents' spirits "up" and their own management efforts on track, particularly when dealing with persistent incontinence challenges.

Some of the most costly care in a skilled nursing facility involves wounds and skin breakdown. With so many deep or longstanding wounds in play, long-term care providers have a large stake in how quickly a resident heals, beyond basic professional pride. Experts here offer several recommendations for effective wound care.