Elnaz Safavieh, Director of Caregiver Services at Family & Nursing Care, has been named to the Future Leaders Class of 2026 by Home Health Care News.
To become a Future Leader, an individual is nominated by their peers. The candidate must be a high-performing employee who is 40 years of age or younger, a passionate worker who knows how to put vision into action, and an advocate for seniors, and the committed professionals who ensure their well-being.
Safavieh sat down with Home Health Care News to share what drew her to the home health & home care industry, the biggest leadership lessons she has learned, her thoughts on the future of home health & home care, and much more. To learn more about the Future Leaders Awards program, visit https://futureleaders.wtwhmedia.com/.
HHCN: What drew you to the home health & home care industry?
Safavieh: I was drawn to an industry that will always matter. Every generation eventually reaches a stage of life where they or someone they love may need additional support, so the need for quality home care will never disappear.
What keeps me passionate about this work is that, at its core, our industry is built on empathy, dignity, and kindness. We have the privilege of helping people remain safe, independent, and comfortable in their own homes while supporting families through some of the most challenging moments of their lives. Knowing that our work can have such a meaningful impact is incredibly rewarding.
HHCN: How would you describe your leadership style, and how has it changed over time?
Safavieh: I would describe my leadership style as adaptable and people-centered.
Early in my career, I naturally communicated and taught others the way I preferred to learn. Over time, I realized that effective leadership isn’t about leading everyone the same way, it’s about understanding what each individual needs to succeed.
Today, I spend more time learning how each team member communicates, processes information, and stays motivated. By adapting my approach to the individual, I’m able to coach more effectively while building trust.
I’ve also learned that one of the most important things a leader can communicate is, “I’m here to support you in the way you need me.” That foundation of trust allows people to grow and do their best work.
HHCN: What is the biggest leadership lesson you’ve learned while serving the home health & home care industry?
Safavieh: The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that flexibility is essential.
No two caregivers, clients, or families are exactly alike, and what works in one situation may not work in another. Strong leaders create consistency in values, not necessarily in approach. While our methods may need to adapt, our commitment to compassion, patience, professionalism, and quality care should never change.
HHCN: In one word, how would you describe the home health & home care industry and why?
Safavieh: Essential.
Home care allows people to maintain their independence, preserve their dignity, and often avoid unnecessary hospitalizations or facility placement. It’s an essential part of our healthcare system and our communities.
HHCN: What do you see as the biggest opportunities and challenges currently facing the home health & home care industry?
Safavieh: One of our greatest challenges is workforce sustainability. Demand for home care continues to grow as our population ages, but recruiting and retaining caregivers has become increasingly difficult. Many younger healthcare professionals are pursuing careers in hospitals or other clinical settings, making it essential for our industry to demonstrate that caregiving is a meaningful, respected, and rewarding career path.
At the same time, I believe this presents one of our greatest opportunities. Organizations that invest in caregiver development, professional recognition, ongoing education, and supportive leadership will be better positioned to attract and retain exceptional caregivers. When we invest in our workforce, everyone benefits — caregivers, clients, and families alike.
HHCN: If you had a crystal ball, what do you think will impact the home health & home care industry over the next 5-10 years?
Safavieh: I believe we’ll see two major forces shaping the industry.
The first is demographics. As the population continues to age, demand for home-based care will grow significantly. The second is technology. Artificial intelligence, remote monitoring, and digital tools will help us identify risks earlier, improve communication, and make caregivers more efficient, but they will never replace the human connection that defines quality home care.
I also think we’ll continue to see a shift toward aging in place, with more families choosing home as the preferred setting for care. Organizations that successfully combine compassionate caregivers with innovative technology will be best positioned for the future.
HHCN: In your opinion, what qualities must all Future Leaders possess?
Safavieh: Curiosity, adaptability, and humility.
Great leaders understand that learning never stops. They’re willing to listen, ask questions, and continually evolve as their teams, industries, and communities change. They also recognize that leadership isn’t about having all the answers — it’s about empowering others to succeed and creating an environment where people feel supported, valued, and inspired to grow.