The aging services industry can be traced back as far as 1601 with the Elizabethan Poor Law. This law, enacted in England, set the foundations of providing relief to those in need including the aged. Families primarily took care of their aging relatives and Neighbors, local churches, and governments would step in when family was not available to provide assistance.
As lifespans increased, the need for more formalized, even centralized, care was evident. The first act that forged this partnership between the government and states was the Social Security Act of 1935 (Title I) and then Title II. Social Security provided for the general welfare of citizens and a social insurance program to pay retired workers a continuing income after reaching retirement age. Social Security prompted the private development of shared residences and communal housing arrangements for senior citizens (American Society on Aging, 2014).
In the 1960s, President Lyndon B. Johnson created national programs to help older Americans. The Older Americans Act of 1965 established the Administration on Aging, which was the first federal agency put in place to focus on the issues the aging population face and provided services to support them. Johnson also signed into law, Medicare, the federal health insurance program for those age 65 and older, and Medicaid, a joint federal-state program that provides nursing home care to the elderly needing this level of care.
With better medicine and more awareness about wellness, people are now living longer. At Wesley Enhanced Living’s continuing care retirement communities, we offer independent living, personal care, and skilled nursing solutions for seniors. This model allows our residents to age in place while receiving the level of support and care that they need.
At Wesley Enhanced Living, every person, in every position, in every department is valued and is able to make a positive impact each and every day. Our Teams consist of professionals working in Dining, Nursing, Assisted Living, Resident Services, Administration and other key departments.
If you are inspired by our mission to make a compelling difference in the lives of seniors, are enthusiastic about life-long learning, and are seeking employment in a close-knit community where your strengths will be valued, Wesley Enhanced Living is the place to be!
Join Us and we will make a difference together!
If you want to make a compelling difference in the lives others, are enthusiastic about life-long learning, and are seeking employment where your strengths will be valued, then please learn more about Wesley Enhanced Living’s career opportunities.