Top 10 Assisted Living Administrator Certifications

Certifications are important for an assisted living administrator in the job market because they demonstrate a commitment to professionalism and a level of knowledge and expertise in their field. Certifications provide employers with evidence that a prospective candidate is qualified to work in the assisted living industry, which can help them stand out among other applicants. Additionally, certifications provide assurance to employers that the individual has taken the time to learn about best practices and standards in the industry, which can give them an edge when competing for positions. Finally, being certified allows administrators to stay up-to-date on changes in regulations and laws related to assisted living facilities, as well as any new trends or developments in the field.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Assisted Living Administrators and explain how they can help advance an assisted living administrator's career.

What are Assisted Living Administrator Certifications?

Assisted living administrator certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual's knowledge, skills, and abilities to provide quality care in an assisted living facility. This certification is offered through various organizations, such as the National Association of Long Term Care Administrator Boards (NAB) and the National Council of Certified Senior Advisors (NCSSA).

By obtaining assisted living administrator certification, individuals can demonstrate their commitment to providing quality care to residents in assisted living facilities. The certification also provides recognition for their work and serves as a mark of excellence for those who have achieved it. Individuals may also benefit from this credential by having greater access to job opportunities or career advancement within the field of assisted living administration. Additionally, certified individuals may be able to command higher salaries when seeking employment in this field.

In order to become certified, individuals must meet certain educational and experience requirements and pass an examination administered by either NAB or NCSSA. The examination covers topics related to regulations, operations, finance and accounting, marketing, human resources management, resident rights and safety issues pertaining to assisted living facilities. Upon successful completion of the exam, individuals will receive their certificate which they can use as proof of their expertise in the field of assisted living administration.

Pro Tip: When considering an assisted living administrator certification, research the requirements and regulations for your state. Each state has different requirements and regulations that must be met to become certified. Additionally, consider whether the program offers any type of continuing education or professional development opportunities to stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices.

Related: What does an Assisted Living Administrator do?

Top 10 Assisted Living Administrator Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Assisted Living Administrators today.

1. Certified Assisted Living Administrator (CALA)

Certified Assisted Living Administrator (CALA) is a professional certification program for administrators of assisted living facilities. The certification is offered by the National Association of Long Term Care Administrator Boards (NAB). It is designed to recognize and promote excellence in the field of assisted living administration.

To become a CALA, applicants must meet certain educational, experience, and examination requirements. Applicants must have at least a bachelor’s degree in health or human services-related field from an accredited college or university, two years of full-time experience as an administrator in an assisted living facility within the last five years, and pass the NAB’s CALA examination.

The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as resident care management, financial management, personnel management, and regulatory compliance. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

The cost to take the CALA exam varies depending on the state where you are taking it but typically ranges between $200-$400.

2. National Association of Long Term Care Administrator Boards (NAB) Certified Assisted Living Executive Director (CALED)

The National Association of Long Term Care Administrator Boards (NAB) Certified Assisted Living Executive Director (CALED) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of long-term care administrators in the assisted living industry. The CALED credential is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated the highest level of competency in the field of assisted living administration.

To become certified, individuals must meet specific eligibility requirements, including having a minimum of three years' experience in an executive role within an assisted living setting. They must also complete an approved training program and pass a comprehensive exam administered by NAB. The exam covers topics such as regulations, operations, marketing, finance, human resources management, and risk management.

The certification process typically takes between six months and one year to complete. It requires applicants to submit documentation verifying their work experience and educational background, as well as a fee for the application process. The cost of obtaining the CALED credential varies depending on the applicant's location and other factors; however, it generally ranges from $200 to $500 USD.

3. National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners (NCCDP) Certified Dementia Care Manager (CDCM)

The National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners (NCCDP) Certified Dementia Care Manager (CDCM) is a professional certification program for dementia care professionals. It is designed to recognize and validate the specialized knowledge and skills required to provide quality care for individuals with dementia. The CDCM credential is awarded to those who have met rigorous standards of education, training, experience, and practice in the field of dementia care.

To become certified as a NCCDP CDCM, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements including:

- A minimum of two years’ experience in providing direct care services to persons with dementia;

- A valid state license or certification in a health-related field;

- Completion of at least 30 hours of continuing education related to dementia care within the past three years;

- Successful completion of the NCCDP CDCM Exam.

The NCCDP CDCM Exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions covering topics such as communication, behavior management, ethical and legal issues, assessment and diagnosis, interventions and resources, and end-of-life care. The exam can be taken online or at an approved testing center. The cost of the exam is $250 USD. Once you pass the exam you will receive your official certification from NCCDP.

4. American College of Health Care Administrators (ACHCA) Certified Nursing Home Administrator (CNHA)

The American College of Health Care Administrators (ACHCA) Certified Nursing Home Administrator (CNHA) is a professional certification that recognizes the expertise and knowledge of nursing home administrators. It is designed to demonstrate a commitment to excellence in the field of long-term care administration.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain educational and experience requirements, as well as pass an examination administered by ACHCA. The educational requirement includes completion of a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university in health care administration or a related field. In addition, applicants must have at least two years of full-time experience in long-term care administration within the last five years.

The CNHA exam consists of 200 multiple choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete. The exam covers topics such as leadership and management, finance and reimbursement, resident rights and safety, quality assurance and improvement, human resources management, regulatory compliance, marketing and public relations, strategic planning, operations management, information systems management, environmental services management, nutrition services management, social services management and legal issues.

The cost for taking the CNHA exam is $350 for ACHCA members or $450 for non-members. After successfully completing the CNHA exam, individuals will receive their official certification from ACHCA which is valid for five years.

5. American Association of Directors of Nursing Services (AADNS) Certified Director of Nursing Practice (CDNP)

The American Association of Directors of Nursing Services (AADNS) Certified Director of Nursing Practice (CDNP) is a certification program designed to recognize the expertise and knowledge of advanced practice nursing directors. The CDNP credential is granted to those who have met the rigorous standards set by AADNS, including a minimum of three years' experience in a leadership role in an acute care setting and completion of continuing education courses.

It typically takes six months to one year to complete all requirements for the CDNP certification. To be eligible, applicants must have a current RN license, have completed at least 3 years of full-time experience as a nurse leader in an acute care setting, and have completed at least 24 hours of continuing education related to nursing administration within the past three years. Applicants must also pass an exam administered by AADNS.

The cost for the CDNP certification varies depending on whether or not you are already an AADNS member. For non-members, it costs $400 for the application fee plus $150 for each exam attempt. For members, it costs $200 for the application fee plus $125 for each exam attempt.

Once certified, nurses can use their credentials to demonstrate their expertise and commitment to excellence in nursing administration and leadership roles.

6. National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL) Certified Assisted Living Facility Manager (CALFM)

The National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL) Certified Assisted Living Facility Manager (CALFM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who are knowledgeable and experienced in the management of assisted living facilities. The CALFM credential is intended to demonstrate an individual's commitment to providing quality care and services to residents in assisted living settings.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements, including having at least two years of experience managing an assisted living facility or related setting, and completing a minimum of 40 hours of continuing education in topics related to the management of assisted living facilities. Additionally, applicants must pass an examination that covers topics such as resident rights and responsibilities, financial management, risk management, staffing and personnel issues, health and safety regulations, marketing strategies, and more.

The certification process typically takes between four to six months from start to finish. To begin the process, applicants must submit an application form along with supporting documentation such as proof of experience and continuing education credits. Once the application is approved by NCAL staff, applicants will be sent instructions on how to register for the exam. The cost of the exam is $250 USD. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive their CALFM certificate from NCAL within four weeks.

In addition to passing the exam, applicants must also agree to abide by NCAL's Code of Ethics for Certified Assisted Living Facility Managers in order to maintain their certification status. This includes agreeing not to engage in any activities that may bring discredit or harm upon themselves or their profession; maintaining a high level of professionalism; adhering to all applicable laws; and complying with all applicable regulations governing assisted living facilities.

7. National Association of Activity Professionals in Long-Term Care Settings (NAAP-LTCS) Certified Activity Professional in Long-Term Care Settings (CAP-LTCS)

The National Association of Activity Professionals in Long-Term Care Settings (NAAP-LTCS) is a professional organization that provides certification and education to activity professionals in long-term care settings. The Certified Activity Professional in Long-Term Care Settings (CAP-LTCS) is a certification program offered by NAAP-LTCS that recognizes the knowledge and skills of activity professionals working in long-term care settings.

The CAP-LTCS certification requires applicants to have at least two years of experience working as an activity professional in a long-term care setting, and to pass an exam administered by NAAP-LTCS. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions covering topics such as therapeutic recreation, leisure studies, aging, health promotion, assessment, programming, and management. It typically takes about five hours to complete the exam.

In order to apply for the CAP-LTCS certification, applicants must submit an application form along with proof of their experience and a $200 fee. Once approved, they must then take the exam within one year. If they pass the exam, they will receive their CAP-LTCS certification from NAAP-LTCS.

The cost for the CAP-LTCS certification is $200 plus any applicable taxes or fees. This covers the cost of the application form and exam fee.

8. National Certification Council for Activity Professionals in Long-Term Care Settings (NCCAP-LTCS) Certified Activity Director in Long-Term Care Settings (CAD-LTCS)

The National Certification Council for Activity Professionals in Long-Term Care Settings (NCCAP-LTCS) Certified Activity Director in Long-Term Care Settings (CAD-LTCS) is a certification program designed to recognize the knowledge, skills, and abilities of those who work as activity directors in long-term care settings. This certification requires applicants to have at least one year of experience working as an activity director or equivalent position in a long-term care setting, and must demonstrate competency through written and practical exams.

Applicants must complete an application form, provide proof of educational background, pass a criminal background check, and submit three professional references. Once the application is approved, applicants must then take the written exam which consists of 150 multiple choice questions. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete. After passing the written exam, applicants must then complete a practical exam which includes demonstrating their ability to plan and implement activities for residents in a long-term care setting.

The cost of the NCCAP-LTCS CAD-LTCS certification program is $400 USD. This fee covers both the written and practical exams as well as any additional materials needed for completion of the program.

9. American Society for Quality in Healthcare Accreditation Commission for Health Care Quality and Safety Management Systems Certification Program

The American Society for Quality in Healthcare (ASQH) Accreditation Commission for Health Care Quality and Safety Management Systems Certification Program is a voluntary program that provides organizations with an internationally recognized accreditation to demonstrate their commitment to quality and patient safety. The program is designed to help organizations improve the quality of care they provide, as well as increase patient safety.

The certification process involves a comprehensive assessment of an organization’s quality and safety management systems, including policies, procedures, processes, and documentation. Organizations must meet specific standards in order to be awarded certification. The assessment includes onsite visits by ASQH assessors who review the organization’s operations and interview staff members.

The entire process typically takes between six months and one year from the time an application is submitted until certification is granted. Organizations must also complete annual reviews in order to maintain their certification status.

Organizations can apply for certification online through the ASQH website or contact the Accreditation Commission directly for more information. There is a fee associated with the application process which varies depending on the size of the organization applying for certification.

10. The Joint Commission Accreditation for Ambulatory Health Care

The Joint Commission Accreditation for Ambulatory Health Care (JCAHO) is a voluntary, independent accreditation program that evaluates ambulatory health care organizations. It is designed to help ensure that organizations meet the highest standards of safety and quality in order to provide safe, high-quality care. The Joint Commission evaluates an organization’s compliance with nationally recognized standards and reviews its performance on patient safety goals.

It typically takes 9-12 months to complete the accreditation process. Organizations must first submit an application and fee, and then undergo a comprehensive review by a team of surveyors who will assess the organization’s compliance with applicable standards. After the review is completed, the organization will receive an accreditation decision from The Joint Commission.

Organizations can apply for JCAHO accreditation online or by mail. The cost of accreditation varies depending on the size and scope of the organization being accredited, but typically ranges from $3,000 to $10,000 per year.

The benefits of JCAHO accreditation include improved patient safety, increased staff satisfaction and morale, better organizational efficiency and effectiveness, increased patient confidence in the organization’s ability to deliver safe care, improved public relations opportunities and more competitive reimbursement rates from payers such as Medicare and Medicaid.

Do You Really Need a Assisted Living Administrator Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual. If you are looking for a career in the field of assisted living, then obtaining an Assisted Living Administrator Certificate may be beneficial to your career prospects. This certificate can provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to become an administrator in an assisted living facility, as well as help you meet the requirements needed to become licensed in most states.

Having this certification can also make you more attractive to potential employers, as it demonstrates that you have taken the initiative to further your education and gain specific knowledge related to this field. Additionally, having a certificate could give you an edge over other candidates who do not possess one, as it shows that you are dedicated and knowledgeable about the field of assisted living.

Ultimately, whether or not someone needs an Assisted Living Administrator Certificate will depend on their personal goals and career aspirations. If becoming an administrator is something that interests them and they are willing to put in the time and effort necessary to obtain this certification, then it could be a valuable asset for their future career prospects.

Related: Assisted Living Administrator Resume Examples

FAQs About Assisted Living Administrator Certifications

Q1. What is an Assisted Living Administrator Certification?

A1. An Assisted Living Administrator Certification is a credential that certifies an individual to manage and operate residential care facilities, such as assisted living communities or nursing homes. The certification is granted by the Department of Health in each state where the facility operates and requires completion of specific education and training requirements.

Q2. What are the educational requirements for obtaining an Assisted Living Administrator Certification?

A2. The educational requirements for obtaining an Assisted Living Administrator Certification vary by state, but typically require a minimum of either a high school diploma or equivalent, or a bachelor’s degree in health services administration, public health, business administration or a related field. In addition, some states may also require additional coursework or experience in healthcare administration.

Q3. How long does it take to obtain an Assisted Living Administrator Certification?

A3. The length of time required to obtain an Assisted Living Administrator Certification depends on the state where it will be obtained; however, most states require between six months and two years to complete the necessary coursework and training requirements.

Q4. Are there any examinations required for obtaining an Assisted Living Administrator Certification?

A4. Yes, most states require successful completion of one or more examinations prior to granting certification as an Assisted Living Administrator. These exams may include topics such as human resources management, financial management, resident rights and safety protocols, nutrition and food service management and other relevant topics related to managing residential care facilities such as nursing homes and assisted living communities.

Q5. Are there any continuing education requirements for maintaining an Assisted Living Administrator Certification?

A5. Yes, most states require ongoing continuing education credits (CEUs) from approved providers in order to maintain a current certification as an Assisted Living Administrator. CEUs must typically be completed within certain time frames or else certification can lapse or be revoked if not maintained properly over time