(443) 745-6115How Our Resident-to-Caregiver Ratio Makes a Real Difference
When families evaluate assisted living or memory care homes, one of the most important factors (and one of the most overlooked) is staffing. Is it adequate? Is it accurate? Is it affectionate?
Kenwood Care’s 2.5:1 resident-to-caregiver ratio isn’t merely a statistic; it’s the foundation of the consistent, personalized care we offer. It’s also what truly sets us apart.
Why Ratio Matters—and Why Ours Is Different
In many assisted-living communities, staffing ratios follow minimal standards. A common ratio in the industry is one caregiver for every 8 residents, while others fall to one caregiver per 12–15 residents or more.
In contrast, Kenwood Care’s ratio is roughly three times better than the minimum set by state requirements in Maryland. Our four Howard County homes each serve about 16 residents with 6 certified staff members. Ultimately, this means far fewer residents per caregiver, which enables us to provide care that is attentive, responsive, and deeply personal.
Continuity of Care—Why the Same Faces Matter
One of the biggest advantages of our low ratio—combined with our use of live-in caregivers—is continuity. Caregivers at Kenwood live on-site, and turnover is low. Residents are cared for by familiar, consistent people who learn their preferences, routines, histories, and subtle cues over time.
Because our caregivers truly know the people they care for, they can:
- Detect early changes in mood, appetite, mobility or behavior—before those changes become more serious concerns.
- Offer tailored personal care (bathing, dressing, grooming) and daily living support with respect and dignity.
- Maintain stable routines and familiar faces, which helps to reduce confusion and anxiety. This is particularly important for residents with memory loss, dementia, or Alzheimer’s.
- For many families, choosing Kenwood Care is not just about getting assistance when needed—it’s about having a calm, predictable environment where a loved one is treated as a person, not a number.
- Safety, Responsiveness & Peace of Mind
- With fewer residents per caregiver:
- Seniors receive quicker attention when they need help. From medication reminders to personal care to support during wandering or disorientation, timely assistance can significantly impact safety and well-being in older adults, particularly those living with dementia.
- Caregivers have the bandwidth to offer more than just basics. Here, they can lend a hand with meals, mobility, companionship, meaningful activities, and emotional support. Thanks to our memory care expertise and 24/7 awake supervision, the low ratio ensures that no resident is left waiting or feeling overlooked.
- Loved ones are calmer, less anxious, and feel more secure, even as memory fades or health declines.
- Transitions (new medication, increased care needs, medical events) are more easily managed. Caregivers know resident history and can respond promptly.
- Visits remain warm and familiar. The consistency we provide makes personal time with family feel like it is taking place in your home, not a facility.
- Communication flows easily between caregivers and family. Subsequently, family members enjoy peace of mind that their loved one’s needs are seen and addressed without delay.
The Kenwood Care Promise
At Kenwood Care, our resident-to-caregiver ratio isn’t a marketing point or sales pitch; it’s a commitment. It’s part of what we call the “Sessler Standard.” The full spectrum of care provided—from basic daily living support to memory-care services to end-of-life comfort—is always delivered with dignity and heart. It reflects our belief that every senior deserves more than the basics. They deserve attentive, dignified, and compassionate support from people who know them best.
If you’re evaluating assisted living or memory care homes, be sure to ask about real staffing ratios, not just what looks good on paper. Then, schedule a Kenwood Care tour today to see firsthand how our staffing philosophy translates to real, everyday care.
