Senior living providers might be forgiven for having a bit more spring in their steps this holiday season.
Consider: Post-COVID occupancy levels continue to rebound. The “Silver Wave” is inching ever near. Loan interest rates have peaked. Sure, the usual challenges remain, starting with staffing. But overall, conditions arguably are the best they have been in many a year.
But that’s just part of the story. Looking ahead, operators may have even more cause celebration. Especially those with the inclination and resources to improve the reality of senior living.
Let’s begin with the aforementioned sore spot: staffing. To be sure, this is a perennial challenge. But look around. Increasingly, operators are embracing new ways to attract and keep the best possible talent. And not just by increasing pay, although that is no small matter. Options such as generous training programs, career advancement opportunities and flexible scheduling were considered unusual in the recent past. Increasingly, they are becoming a price of admission. The result? Lower turnover, more motivated staff members and, ahem, happier customers.
Speaking of change, it wasn’t too long ago we were talking about tech tools as a futuristic, someday, novelty item. Now, technology is ubiquitous, touching almost every area of operations and services. From state-of-the-art health monitoring systems to interactive communication platforms, those innovations don’t just make the job of community leaders easier. They also help create a more engaging and connected environment for residents.
One of the most promising emerging trends is a focus on personalized care plans. This was, until recently, often viewed as a concern limited to skilled care. These days, senior living communities increasingly are tailoring services to meet the unique needs and preferences of each resident. This is not only ensuring a better quality of life for residents; it’s also helping operators set themselves apart.
We’re also starting to see unprecedented levels of community integration. As never before, operators are creating senior living spaces that seamlessly blend into the fabric of surrounding neighborhoods. This connection isn’t just fostering a sense of belonging for residents; it’s also opening up new opportunities for collaboration with local businesses and services.
In addition, many communities are beginning to recognize the need for holistic programs that promote not just physical health but also mental and emotional well-being. Initiatives such as art therapy, mindfulness programs and intergenerational activities are gaining traction, contributing to a more vibrant and fulfilling experience for residents while also creating a positive work environment for employees.
There’s no doubt we are witnessing both evolution and revolution in senior living. The payoff of this unique marriage will be better options for consumers and a better future for operators willing to join the dance.
And perhaps as never before, operators will have good reason to kick up their heels.
John O’Connor is editorial director for McKnight’s Senior Living and its sister media brands, McKnight’s Long-Term Care News, which focuses on skilled nursing, and McKnight’s Home Care. Read more of his columns here.
