More of us are living to a greater age and so the demand for places continues to increase. As a result looking after those who cannot look after themselves has become a huge industry.
Competition for that business is fierce, especially given the fees that are charged.
And as with any competitive business some homes are better than others.
The new system, introduced by the Government, is inspired and can only help improve the provision of care for the elderly.
It will act as an all-seeing eye, keeping up the pressure on owners, managers and staff to provide a level of service which, at the very least, meets acceptable standards.
Equally importantly, it will allow families of elderly people who need to be placed in care to make informed decisions based on a set of findings they can understand and trust.
Anyone who has ever been in the position of putting a relative into care will tell you how difficult this has been.
There are few more emotive acts than committing a loved one into another person's care.
Feelings can range from a profound sense of failure to a heightened level of protectiveness.
There have been some shocking examples of mistreatment in care homes. Calderdale has had its share.
Knowing there is now a structured system in operation will put people's minds at rest.