Join professional associations for home care and nursing home administrators By joining state and national associations for nursing homes and home health agencies, you can connect with other long-term care professionals and learn about the newest legislation and how it might affect you.

I recommend:  The American Association of Homes and Services for the Aging is geared toward aging services professionals from not-for-profit organizations who want to serve as advocates for both residents and facilities. Or you may want to join your state's nursing home association, such the Louisiana Nursing Home Association or the Pennsylvania Health Care Association.

Stay informed of state and federal nursing home regulations With the widespread reports of nursing home abuse over the last several years, state and federal agencies began enacting stricter regulations and guidelines for nursing homes and other long-term care facilities. Nursing homes are scrutinized like never before, so if you're a nursing home administrator, you'll want to make complying with these laws your top priority.

I recommend:  At the NHRegsPlus website, search for regulations by state. Or, subscribe to the Nursing Home Regulations Manual, which offers advice on staying compliant with the latest changes to nursing home law.

Seek out resources specifically for home nursing businesses While home health businesses and nursing homes share a similar mission, their needs and the regulations governing them differ slightly, so it's a good idea to consult with agencies and groups dedicated to helping home health agencies thrive and stay compliant.

I recommend:  The Home Health Agency Center at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services offers manuals, educational resources and links to information about home health regulations. The National Association for Home Care and Hospice represents home care agencies and hospices. And the Home Health Nurses Association provides information and resources for nurses working in home health.