Imagine a nurse who not only knows your medical history but also remembers the little things that make you unique—a relationship that goes beyond just treating symptoms. For those seeking a warm, trustworthy place to retire, these connections mean everything.
At Delmar Gardens, we understand the importance of these relationships and we pride ourselves on our ability to create a welcoming environment for both caregivers and residents. Our skilled nursing facilities have some of the most dedicated nursing teams composed of long-serving nurses who have formed close relationships with our residents. In this post, we’re excited to share a few of their stories, celebrating their commitment to care.
The Value of Longevity in Skilled Nursing
Before we share these stories, we want to start first by defining “staff longevity” and explain why it’s important, especially in our skilled nursing facilities.
Staff longevity simply refers to the amount of time a staff member has been employed at a care facility. So when we talk about staff longevity in skilled nursing, we’re highlighting the fact that our caregivers have been with us for many years. This is not always the norm in nursing homes and care facilities. Many healthcare organizations face a significant challenge with staff turnover, particularly in the senior care sector. The turnover rate for nursing homes is about 70%. That means that two out of three nursing home workers leave their jobs in the course of a year.
At Delmar Gardens, we view staff longevity as more than just a statistic—it plays a crucial role in the well-being of our residents. Research shows that when caregivers stay with the same facility over time, it fosters deep, trusting relationships that lead to better physical, emotional, and cognitive outcomes.
For example, studies have found that facilities with lower staff turnover often see fewer hospital readmissions and a higher quality of life among residents*. This consistency means our team can quickly spot even the smallest changes in a resident’s health, ensuring timely and personalized care. Ultimately, long-term staff create a secure, home-like environment where every resident feels truly cared for.
*Research Citation: Castle, N. G., & Engberg, J. (2005). Staff Turnover and Quality of Care in Nursing Homes. Medical Care, 43(6), 616-626.
Shining a Spotlight on Our Skilled Nursing Team
Behind every warm smile and comforting hand at Delmar Gardens is a dedicated caregiver whose commitment to our residents spans years—sometimes decades. Here are just a few of the remarkable individuals whose passion and loyalty embody the heart of our care.
Cindy Walden – Business Office Manager, Delmar Gardens South (31.5 years)
Drawn to Delmar Gardens for its reputation as a premier facility close to home, Cindy has built her career around nurturing connections. She’s stayed for more than three decades because of “the residents, families, and the most incredible Administrative team.” Known for her motto, “hugs over handshakes,” Cindy believes these personal touches define the culture at Delmar Gardens.
Sheila Moore – CNA/Restorative Therapy, Chesterfield (28 years)
Sheila says she’s “addicted to the smiles of the dear residents.” For her, Delmar Gardens feels like home because of the family-like atmosphere among staff and residents. Her faith inspires her daily, and she’s proud that “Delmar Gardens still has the compassion and understanding” that drew her in years ago.
Benigno Calvillo Carlon – Dietary Director, Delmar Gardens of Lenexa (8 years)
For Benigno, Delmar Gardens is more than a workplace—it’s a community that treats him like family. He values the equal opportunities provided and finds joy in knowing his residents can count on him. His motivation comes from his family, co-workers, and the residents he serves.
Dinae Stubblefield – Activity Director, Delmar Gardens of Lenexa (11 years)
After joining through a friend’s recommendation, Dinae quickly fell in love with the “true compassion for the elderly” she found here. She describes the culture simply: “We are family—residents and staff included.” For her, the greatest reward is seeing a resident’s face light up when they recognize her as someone who truly cares.
Tiffany Brady – HR/Payroll Manager, Delmar Gardens South (22 years)
Having grown up visiting Delmar Gardens, Tiffany knew it was a special place. Today, she’s part of a “great team” that feels like a second family. Her most memorable moment? Taking a resident to the production of Wicked—a reminder of how special shared experiences can be. Tiffany stays inspired knowing she can make a difference in someone’s life each day.
The Lasting Impact of Dedicated Caregivers
At Delmar Gardens, staff longevity isn’t just a point of pride—it’s the reason why we can provide such exceptional care. When caregivers stay for years, they build deep bonds with residents, anticipate needs before they’re spoken, and create an environment where trust, comfort, and familiarity thrive. This consistency benefits our residents with better health outcomes and a true sense of belonging, while our team members find fulfillment and purpose.
We’d love to hear from you—whether you’ve experienced the warmth of long-term caregivers firsthand or are curious to learn more about our approach to skilled nursing. Share your story, schedule a tour, or connect with us to discover what makes Delmar Gardens a place so many call home for decades.
