How Senior Star's Unique Business Approach Fights Burnout in Senior Living

In the ever-evolving landscape of the senior living industry, where competition for labor is fierce, Senior Star is setting itself apart—not by following fleeting trends, but by nurturing a deeply rooted culture centered on love and connection. This comprehensive approach led to the company being recognized on the prestigious FORTUNE Best Workplaces in Aging Services™ list for 2025, marking their seventh inclusion in the past eight years.

Senior Star’s remarkable consistency in these rankings raises an essential question: what truly lies behind this success? More than just employee benefits or branding, it reflects a profound sense of belonging among staff and residents alike.

Leadership with Heart

At the heart of Senior Star's mission is their Chief Strategy Officer, Taylor Hernandez, who began her journey in a community setting. Taylor's ascent from front-line associate to executive leader is a testament to the organization's commitment to internal development and socially responsible practices. "At Senior Star, we've cultivated an environment where everyone feels appreciated and important," Hernandez explains. "My growth here was supported by leaders who genuinely believed in my potential. Such a culture not only shapes careers but transforms lives."

Across various departments, associates continuously express that their roles have meaningful impacts, reinforcing their bonds with colleagues and the residents they serve. This sentiment resonates throughout the company, as individuals share stories of purpose-driven work and professional growth.

A Culture of Compassion

When discussing the industry's challenges, Senior Star's CEO Anja Rogers, with more than four decades under her belt at the company, provides a reassuring perspective: "While we are not immune to the issues our sector faces, the way we respond—through compassion, consistency, and mutual love—is what differentiates us."

This commitment is not merely a mission statement; it is woven into the fabric of daily operations. The company invests in comprehensive development initiatives, from personalized mentorship programs to leadership training and wellness matters. Their latest Great Place to Work® survey boasted an impressive participation rate of 98% among associates, which is remarkable across any field.

The survey results underscored key cultural strengths: trust, pride, and a meaningful sense of purpose. "We believe that our residents flourish when our staff feels connected to their work," Rogers noted.

This philosophy is echoed by the families of the residents, with 94% recognizing the dedication of the staff in genuinely understanding their loved ones, and 82% stating that the environment genuinely feels like home—a significant acknowledgment when "home" has been synonymous with family memories for decades. Such affirmations highlight that an effective culture encompasses both empathy and excellence.

Building a Legacy

Senior Star embraces a unique business model that focuses on genuinely connecting with people, which stands in stark contrast to the more transactional approaches often found in today's corporate landscape. By fostering real relationships and prioritizing mental wellness and professional development, they are not just combatting burnout; they are creating an enriched living and working environment for everyone involved.

As the senior living industry continues to navigate its challenges, Senior Star exemplifies how love can indeed be a sustainable business model. Their approach not only sets a new benchmark for employee engagement but also transforms the lives of residents, creating lasting memories and meaningful connections that enrich the lives of all involved.

In a world where authenticity is becoming increasingly rare, Senior Star is proving that the best business model is one rooted in love and dedication—a lesson that resonates deeply across all sectors.