{"acf2caae-0773-4eb2-bb10-57a01b19e200": "hsatter", "b36780e0-cb72-4402-8bda-d3fd3a8925b0": "Recognizing the critical role family members and other close, outside caregivers have in the care and support of residents, and recognizing how they advocate for the resident, it is strongly recommended\nlong-term care (LTC) facilities develop a process to designate essential caregivers (EC) where appropriate. An EC could be an individual who was previously actively engaged with the resident or is committed to providing\ncompanionship and/or assistance with activities of daily living. LTC facilities are not required to implement an EC program, but this guidance provides recommendations for those facilities that choose\nto do so. The goal of such a designation is to help ensure these high-risk residents continue to receive individualized, person-centered care."}