Specially trained certified nursing assistants—called Shahbazim (singular form is Shahbaz)—staff each residence and provide a wide range of assistance, including: personal care, activities, meal preparation and service, light housekeeping, and laundry. The elders and Shahbazim are the primary decision-makers for each community.

A self-managed work team structure is used. The Shahbazim are coached by and accountable to the Guide (a new role typically assumed by a nursing home administrator) and are partnered with the clinical support team. The nurses play an important role in building an empowered care team within The Green House home, bringing all their knowledge and skills to the Shahbazim and elders as partners and team members. In addition to being teachers and mentors, the nurses have the opportunity to build relationships and support the Shahbazim as they grow to become gerontological experts within their scope of practice. The nurses’ relationships with the elders and Shahbazim form the basis of effective person-directed care teams and are the key to advancing a new culture of care. The Sage, a local community elder who volunteers as a mentor, facilitates the development of the self-managed work team by serving as a trusted advisor to the Shahbazim and elders.

The Guide is responsible for the overall operations and quality of services in The Green House home.

Each Green House home is supported by a clinical support team, that includes nurses, social workers, activities experts, therapists, nutritionists, a medical director, and a pharmacist.