​As the adage goes, the only constant is change. And we feel that change in the long term care profession, whether it is fluctuating regulations, new administrations, shifting priorities, novel technology, or innovative initiatives.

New mandates from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid, a recent presidential election, technology that moves ever forward, and many more examples show we cannot rest in our knowledge but must continue to learn and grow. Try new things and keep an open mind.

Winter may be the perfect season to take time to recenter, refocus, and re-engage. As long as we keep the residents at the center of our efforts, we can navigate these varied situations with grace and courage. We can draw upon a deep well of compassion and dedication to strengthen our resolve to meet new challenges.

In this issue, Provider dives deeper into the transition to the Patient Driven Payment Model in state Medicaid programs. With a deadline coming in 2025, some states have already made the change, while others are working through the process. Through collaboration and teamwork, providers can make the PDPM work for them.

Residents with an opioid use disorder, chronic mental health challenges, or traumatic brain injuries need treatments, plans, and care that is specially tailored to their needs. This can require changing processes, adapting to updated education, and trying new methods.

Clifton J. Porter, II, took the reins of AHCA/NCAL in the fall of 2024. Get to know him and his strategies for taking AHCA/NCAL into the future in the profile on page 20.

As we turn the page into 2025, explore the rest of this issue about slowing the progress of dementia, de-escalating aggression, learning ways to clinical and financial success, improving vaccine education, and celebrating anniversaries.