Selecting a nursing home for a loved one is a significant decision that requires thoughtful evaluation. Each year, U.S. News & World Report publishes its Best Nursing Homes rankings to provide families with a comprehensive guide to nearly 15,000 facilities across the country. The 2025 report highlights the top-rated nursing homes for both short-term rehabilitation and long-term care, offering valuable insights for those seeking quality senior care.
While these rankings serve as a great resource, making the best choice also requires firsthand visits and thorough research to ensure the facility meets the specific needs of the resident.
Only 20% of nursing homes evaluated received top ratings, based on factors such as patient outcomes, staffing quality, and overall care standards. One concerning finding is that nearly half of U.S. nursing homes fail to meet federal staffing guidelines, which require at least eight hours of registered nurse coverage per day.
Understanding the qualities that set high-performing nursing homes apart can help families make informed choices that go beyond just the numbers.
One of the strongest indicators of nursing home quality is staffing levels. The report reveals that leading short-term rehabilitation centers provide 50% more nursing care per resident than those with lower ratings. Additionally, the most highly rated long-term care facilities have double the staff retention rates compared to underperforming ones, ensuring greater continuity of care.
Delivering quality care is a top priority at Life Center, where maintaining a low staff-to-resident ratio ensures each individual receives the attention they need. A dedicated team helps residents feel secure, respected, and well cared for, fostering a supportive and engaging environment.
According to the 2025 report, the best nursing homes share key qualities that contribute to an enhanced resident experience:
These insights highlight the importance of choosing a nursing home that goes beyond just meeting standards and instead prioritizes the holistic well-being of its residents.
While rankings provide a valuable reference point, families should also visit nursing homes in person, observe staff interactions, and engage with residents to get a true sense of the care provided. Touring the facility and speaking with caregivers can help determine whether it aligns with the resident’s expectations and needs.
Providing outstanding care is a cornerstone of Life Center, where the focus extends beyond clinical needs to fostering an environment that promotes comfort, dignity, and an enriched quality of life.
Located in Des Moines, Life Center has built a strong reputation for delivering exceptional senior care. The facility is known for its professional yet compassionate approach, ensuring every resident receives personalized attention and support.
One of the defining aspects of Life Center is its commitment to maintaining an optimal staff-to-resident ratio. This allows caregivers to develop deeper relationships with residents and provide tailored care to enhance their daily lives. Beyond rankings, choosing a nursing home should involve considering the level of individual attention and the community atmosphere it offers.
For those searching for a trusted nursing home in Des Moines, Life Center offers a professional, compassionate, and resident-centered environment. With a focus on providing high-quality care, we ensure every individual enjoys a comfortable and fulfilling experience.
Life Center
900 Polk Blvd, Des Moines, IA 50312, United States
+1 515-255-5433
https://www.seniorlifecenter.org/