To help aging America, it's time to think beyond nursing homes, says Ecumen chief

Shelley Kendrick has spent nearly three decades working in health care and senior services. On Monday, the native of Flint, Mich., will take over as chief executive of Ecumen, a $147 million provider of senior housing and services. The Shoreview-based nonprofit serves about 15,000 people each year in independent living, assisted living and skilled-nursing locations as well as in private homes. The company also provides hospice care, a fast-growing part of the business. Although the bulk of operations are in Minnesota, Ecumen provides training and operational support to senior-housing communities in Wisconsin, North Dakota, Michigan, Idaho, Ohio, Indiana and Tennessee. Kendrick has been with Ecumen since 2012, focused on the housing and operations.

Q: How are you feeling as you step into this new role?

http://www.startribune.com/to-help-aging-america-it-s-time-to-think-beyond-nursing-homes-says-ecumen-chief/505116312/