AAHSA Quality First's 10 Elements of Quality

Updated: October 11, 2005

AAHSA Quality First is a philosophy of quality and a framework for earning public trust in aging services.

AAHSA Quality First reinforces the commitment that not-for-profit aging services providers have to maximize quality of care and quality of life for older adults. AAHSA Quality First allows consumers to have confidence that the aging services they choose for themselves and their loved ones will meet or exceed their needs and expectations.

Ten Elements of Quality serve as the framework for Quality First:

1. Commitment - A pledge by aging services providers across the continuum of aging services to maintain and promote ethical practices and the highest standards of quality.
2. Governance and Accountability - Achieving and maintaining high standards of management and governance to improve quality consistent with our mission and values.
3. Leading-Edge Care and Services — Implementing models and practices that are based on evidence of success, represent the tradition of personal service and are adaptable to a changing society.
4. Community Involvement — Engaging in community citizenship and service — social accountability, volunteer involvement and relationship building.
5. Continuous Quality Improvement — Using CQI methods to enhance existing programs, improve effectiveness and foster a collaborative work environment.
6. Human Resources Development — Providing training, competitive wages and benefits, and a supportive workplace environment.
7. Consumer-Friendly Information — Providing accessible and understandable information for older adults, families and caregivers.
8. Consumer Participation — Engaging residents/clients, family members and other consumers in care and services.
9. Research Findings and Education — Using and sharing the latest research findings to improve care and services for older adults.
10. Public Trust and Consumer Confidence — Committing to a policy of outreach, openness and authenticity to increase public understanding of quality aging services and earn the trust of the people we serve and their families — as well as the media, the public and policymakers.

AAHSA is pleased to offer the tools, information, education and support to assist our members in fulfilling their commitment to the Quality First Covenant at www.aahsa.org/qualityfirst.