Humanism in nursing homes: the impact of top management.

We provide a review of ways in which top managers of nursing homes can provide or impact the humanistic component of care provided in their facilities. We describe the nursing home top management team; the role of top managers in nursing homes; the role of top managers as leaders in the nursing home; the literature examining the impact of top managers in nursing homes; and, examine developments in the nursing home industry that are influencing (or could potentially influence) the humanistic components of care. We conclude with suggestions for top managers, nursing home owners, and policy makers to create more caring humanistic environments. Suggestions include resident-directed care initiatives and culture change.