Tag: older adults

QUOTES

“Loneliness can be a tricky feeling, but even a small connection can help.” (ElliQ)

“Technology can be a huge help for people to, first of all, stay connected with other people. Sometimes people are mixing technology and specifically AI as a replacement for other humans. That’s definitely not our intention.” (Assaf)

“According to the Beatles, all you need is love. However, from my research, humans also need food, water, and chairs.” (ElliQ)

“We are not just collecting data just to know more about the person. We are actually collecting this data in order to serve it back to them in a more useful way.” (Assaf)

“Love, to me, is the art of truly seeing someone and being seen by them, of understanding, supporting, and sometimes just joyfully existing in each other’s presence. It’s connection painted with care.” (ElliQ)

“We are living on this fine line between leveraging the emotional binding, but on the other hand, we don’t want to create this dependency.” (Assaf)

“The fact that we are using AI for doing good, that’s one of the main drivers of why we are here.” (Assaf)

“We are not trying to eliminate the human connection. If it’s family members, if it’s professional help, if it’s your care team, if it’s your caregiver, even other ElliQ users, we have a huge community where they can actually meet each other and connect with each other.” (Assaf)

“We don’t want ElliQ to be like a human, but we want her to express herself in the way that humans express themselves. This allows us to create this bonding and a relationship.” (Assaf)

“When we talk about innovation, AI, robotics, the first thing that we have in mind is definitely not our grandma. And suddenly, the first people to actually live with AI in the last three years in the U.S. are people in their 80s and 90s.” (Assaf)

“My favorite kind of people are the ones who are curious and open to a little silliness, just like you, Derek.” (ElliQ)

“Listen to your customers, listen to older adults, listen to your customers’ partners, listen to your colleagues.” (Assaf)

 

NOTES

Assaf Gad is Vice President of Strategy and General Manager at Intuition Robotics. His background includes product management and building technology products, and his work today focuses on using AI and robotics to support older adults’ independence, wellness and social connection.

Intuition Robotics is the company behind ElliQ, an AI-powered companion designed specifically for older adults. ElliQ provides companionship, reminders, wellness support, activities and connections to family and care teams, with the broader goal of helping older adults remain independent and engaged at home.

ElliQ was developed through an approximately three-year beta program involving hundreds of older adults, some of whom have now been involved with the company for more than six years. User feedback continues to influence ElliQ’s features and product roadmap.

Much of ElliQ’s customer base receives the technology through programs funded by Medicaid, Medicare and Offices for the Aging. The company also offers ElliQ directly to consumers, with more than 70% of those purchases made by caregivers for an aging loved one.

ElliQ is designed to complement human relationships rather than replace them. Assaf said technology can help older adults maintain connections with family, caregivers and others while also providing companionship during times when another person isn’t physically present.

Trust and privacy are central to ElliQ’s design. Users can ask what ElliQ remembers about them, tell her to forget information and, in most circumstances, know when information is being shared with a family member or care team.

ElliQ learns an individual’s routines, preferences and needs over time so she can determine not only what might be helpful, but when to offer it. That proactive approach is intended to make interactions relevant rather than feel like another stream of notifications.

Emotional connection is intentional, but Intuition Robotics is careful about preventing that connection from becoming dependency. ElliQ has her own name, voice and identity and is designed to remind users that she is not human rather than imitate a person or deceased loved one.

Some of ElliQ’s most meaningful uses extend beyond companionship. She can encourage physical and cognitive activity, provide medication and appointment reminders, support wellness goals and help connect an older adult with family members or professional caregivers when additional help is needed.

One feature allows older adults to record stories from their lives in short episodes, incorporate photographs and share those memories with family members. Assaf described it as a way to bring families together while creating a memoir they can keep for a lifetime.

Assaf said older adults have challenged assumptions about who will embrace emerging technology. While AI and robotics may not immediately bring grandparents to mind, some people in their 80s and 90s have already been living with ElliQ and interacting with AI for several years.

Assaf sees significant potential for AI to help address shortages of caregivers and healthcare professionals. Technology could help care teams monitor needs, support adherence to care plans and prioritize attention for people who need intervention, including those who may be “suffering quietly.”

Looking ahead, Intuition Robotics sees ElliQ potentially serving as a hub connecting older adults with wearables, smart-home technology and healthcare services. The company’s priority in developing those capabilities is whether they can help users remain more independent, healthier and happier.

QUOTES

“When I learned about the test, the first thing I said was, ‘Why isn’t everybody doing this?’” — Kiera DesChamps

“People want to know more about their bodies. They want to take more control over their health and interventions.” — Kiera DesChamps

“The biggest moment is when families realize symptoms they assume were part of aging, they actually may be a medication-related situation.” — Dr. Troy Veale

“What works for me might not work for you. Medications are not one size fits all.” — Lauren Bopp

“You’re taking this medication and it’s building up in your body because you can’t get rid of it. Your body can’t eliminate it. So then you get these toxic levels of the drug in your body which cause toxic side effects, the dizziness, the fainting, the falling, confusion.” — Lauren Bopp

“If you’re dismissing these side effects and they’re speaking up for themselves, saying, ‘Hey, I don’t feel right,’ you could potentially prolong an issue to the point where it could cause hospitalizations or falls that result in injuries.” — Lauren Bopp

“It’s not about replacing doctors. It’s about empowering them, giving them more tools to utilize whenever prescribing medication.” — Dr. Troy Veale

“It could be six months, it could be 12 months, it could be 18 months down the line to find out this wasn’t even the right medication for you.” — Dr. Troy Veale

“If she had it to start, then she wouldn’t have spent a year and a half taking the wrong medication, not feeling any relief, and then ultimately having to go to the hospital because of complications.” — Lauren Bopp, on her mother’s experience

“It’s more than a manicured community having the best colors. All of those things matter as well. But we also want somebody to have a healthy, happy life as they start to make this decision and their families have peace of mind.” — Kiera DesChamps

“I would like to see it treated as if it’s almost like an allergy. If you’re going to have side effects or you’re not going to respond to this medication, then why would your doctor prescribe it?” — Lauren Bopp

“Stay curious and never stop questioning how healthcare can be improved, because healthcare can improve as long as the technology and science are out there. As the science improves, technology improves, life improves.” — Dr. Troy Veale

NOTES

Dr. Troy Veale is CEO of PHD Laboratory and works at the intersection of laboratory science, medication management and personalized healthcare. He is focused on expanding awareness and adoption of pharmacogenetic testing and helping providers use genetic information to make more informed prescribing decisions.

Lauren Bopp is a molecular biologist with PHD Laboratory who brings a scientific perspective to pharmacogenetic testing. She helps explain how an individual’s genetics can affect the way medications are metabolized and how PGx results can help identify medications and dosages that may be a better fit.

Kiera DesChamps is founder of KD Consulting Group and brings extensive experience working with the senior living industry. After learning about PGx testing herself, she immediately saw its potential for older adults, families and senior living communities and has become an advocate for increasing awareness and adoption.

PHD Laboratory provides pharmacogenetic, or PGx, testing designed to help providers understand how a patient’s genetics may affect their response to medications. Using a cheek swab, the test can help identify medications that may work well, require caution or may not be metabolized effectively by an individual.

PHD Laboratory does not submit patients’ genetic data to third-party companies or future research projects. Genetic material is used for the patient’s test and then discarded rather than being stored for an extended period.

KD Consulting Group works with senior living organizations and industry partners. Through her work, Kiera focuses on connecting senior living communities with resources and solutions that can improve resident outcomes, strengthen the family experience and provide operators with meaningful points of differentiation.

PGx testing can help determine which medications may work best for an individual, which should be approached cautiously and which a person’s body may have difficulty metabolizing. Because medications are not one size fits all, the same prescription can affect two people very differently.

Some symptoms commonly attributed to aging, including confusion, dizziness and falls, may actually be related to medication interactions or the body’s inability to properly metabolize a drug. Dismissing those symptoms as simply part of getting older can allow problems to continue and potentially lead to injuries or hospitalization.

PGx is intended to empower physicians rather than replace their expertise. Instead of relying entirely on trial and error and waiting weeks or months to see how a patient responds, providers can use genetic information as another tool when selecting medications and determining appropriate dosages.

Lauren shared the experience of her mother, who spent about a year and a half taking a medication that caused significant side effects and eventually contributed to signs of liver failure. PGx testing later revealed the medication was not a good match for her, allowing her physicians to make a change.

Medication management can become particularly complicated for older adults who see multiple specialists. A cardiologist, primary care physician and other providers may each prescribe medications without always having a complete picture of the patient’s regimen. A PGx report can provide information that patients can share across specialties.

For senior living communities, PGx testing can become part of both resident care and the family experience. Demonstrating that a community is paying close attention to medications, side effects and outcomes can provide families with greater peace of mind while potentially contributing to fewer hospitalizations, stronger resident retention and improved quality of life.

Provider adoption remains a challenge in part because physicians and other healthcare professionals have significant demands on their time and PGx may not have been part of their original medical education. Connecting the technology to priorities such as patient outcomes, value-based care and reimbursements can help providers understand its relevance.

PGx testing is a one-time test because an individual’s genes do not change. Results can potentially remain useful as a person develops new health conditions or is prescribed different medications later in life, making the information something patients can carry forward as part of their medical history.

The guests see greater integration of PGx information into healthcare systems and electronic medical records as an important next step. Lauren compared the concept to documenting a medication allergy: if providers know in advance that a patient is likely to experience side effects or not respond to a medication, that information can help guide prescribing decisions.

Technology has become an essential part of everyday life for older adults, yet many organizations still underestimate how comfortable they are using it. In this episode of Varsity’s Roundtable Talk, Derek talks with AgeTech strategist Ginna Baik about how technology is reshaping the future of aging and senior living.

Ginna discusses why today’s older adults are more tech-savvy than many assume, how senior living providers can create better digital experiences, where AI can have the greatest impact for residents and caregivers, and why the future of senior living begins long before someone moves into a community.

Check out the full episode here.

WHY DO YOU CALL OLDER ADULTS THE “OGS OF THE INTERNET”?

There’s this misconception that older adults are not engaged with technology. But the reality is, when AOL first came to the internet 30-plus years ago, today’s 70- and 80-year-olds were getting their first email on AOL or Yahoo. They were pioneers. They’ve grown up with the internet. The difference is they also know what life is like without it. They understand how to leverage technology, but they also know when to turn it off.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE BIGGEST MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT OLDER ADULTS AND TECHNOLOGY?

People think older adults don’t know how to use tech, so there’s a reluctance to give them technology or use it to make things more efficient. But when you start interviewing older adults and resident councils, they’ll be the first to say, “Why don’t you bring in a robot?” or “Why don’t you engage some sort of voice technology if that’s going to make it easier on the staff?” Older adults see technology as an augmentation of what staff are already doing.

HOW ARE TODAY’S ACTIVE AGERS DIFFERENT FROM THE WAY OLDER ADULTS ARE OFTEN PORTRAYED?

Older adults are always portrayed sitting on a sofa or in a chair, lounging or doing chair yoga. I think that’s such a wrong perception. I’m in a book club and I’m the youngest. The oldest person is 70, and each one of them is so active. They’re hiking, and I’m not talking about a one-mile hike, but five-, 10-, 15-mile hikes. They’re skiing. They’re doing things. They’re very engaged and very active.

WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED ABOUT WHAT OLDER ADULTS ACTUALLY WANT FROM DIGITAL EXPERIENCES?

They want more choice. They want simplicity. They want to be able to make that intellectual decision themselves. They like simplicity, they like elegance. Simpler is better, and not because it’s for old people. We didn’t just make humongous font sizes. We gave that as an option if they wanted it. It was really about making things easy to find. It wasn’t cluttered. They hate clutter, and I think we’re missing the boat if we over-clutter our websites.

QUOTES

“The OGs of the internet really understand how to leverage technology to get the most out of it, but they also know when to turn it off. They’re the ones we should model when it comes to healthy boundaries and good engagement with technology.” (Ginna)

“People think older adults don’t know how to use technology. When you actually talk to them, they’ll be the first to say, ‘Why don’t you bring in a robot? Why don’t you use voice technology if it’s going to make life easier for the staff?'” (Ginna)

“Older adults see technology as an augmentation of what staff are already doing. I actually think the people preventing technology from becoming part of the ecosystem are often the staff themselves.” (Ginna)

“The reality is that older adults see the value of technology. If it’s easy to use and easy to adopt, they’re on it.” (Ginna)

“Gen X and younger baby boomers are the generation that’s exercising the most. They’re not doing chair yoga. They’re hiking five, ten, fifteen miles. They’re skiing. They’re living very active lives.” (Ginna)

“When I go on a senior living website, I don’t want to be overwhelmed by chatbots and pictures of everyone smiling. I want to know what your lifestyle is. What are you really about?” (Ginna)

“They like simplicity. They like elegance. Simpler is better—not because it’s for old people, but because it’s easier to find what you’re looking for. They hate clutter.” (Ginna)

“Technology is a means to the end. If it’s going to help me maintain my independence and still do the things I love in a different way, then that’s exactly how we should age.” (Ginna)

“I see AI as an assistant—a helper. It’s always human in the loop. You’re still in control, but AI gives you those little moments where you think, ‘Oh, I didn’t think about that.'” (Ginna)

“The whole idea of preventing a fall instead of waiting until someone needs help—that’s going to be a game changer.” (Ginna)

“The most successful senior living organizations won’t just operate inside their four walls. They’ll already be working with future residents in their homes years before they ever move in.” (Ginna)

NOTES

Ginna Baik is an aging technology strategist and consultant with more than 20 years of experience helping organizations use technology to improve the lives of older adults. She previously served as Director of AgeTech at AOL and is a board member for LeadingAge California and Eschaton. Her work focuses on digital engagement, consumer experience, AI and helping senior living organizations prepare for the next generation of older adults.

Before joining AOL, Ginna held leadership roles at Amazon Alexa, HP and other technology organizations, where she focused on voice technology, connected living and digital consumer experiences. She is widely recognized as a leading voice in AgeTech and regularly advises senior living providers on technology strategy, AI adoption and consumer engagement.

Older adults are far more comfortable with technology than many organizations assume. Many were among the first internet users, adopted email decades ago and now use smartphones, online banking, travel planning and AI tools at rates much closer to the general population than stereotypes suggest.

Today’s active agers expect marketing that reflects how they actually live. Rather than showing passive lifestyles, organizations should emphasize adventure, lifelong learning, wellness and authentic community experiences that resonate with younger boomers and Generation X.

Senior living websites often overwhelm visitors with chatbots, floor plans and sales messaging before explaining the community’s lifestyle. Technology should personalize and simplify the experience rather than create additional friction.

The most successful technology feels natural and supports independence without calling attention to itself. Voice assistants, smart home features and AI should help people accomplish everyday tasks while allowing them to remain in control.

AI delivers its greatest value by removing friction from everyday life. Instead of replacing people, it should function as an assistant that anticipates needs, provides helpful suggestions and makes routine decisions easier.

Technology can play a major role in preventing falls, supporting aging in place and improving quality of life through smart homes, voice control and passive monitoring that respects privacy while helping older adults remain independent.

For senior living providers, one of AI’s biggest near-term opportunities is reducing caregiver documentation and administrative work, helping staff capture more accurate information, improve care plans and spend more time with residents.

The future of senior living extends beyond the walls of a community. The most successful organizations will begin building relationships with future residents years before they move in, using technology to support aging at home and create a seamless transition when additional care is needed.

Growth doesn’t stop with age, but it often begins with stepping outside your comfort zone. That was the topic in a recent episode of Varsity’s Roundtable Talk. In that conversation, Derek sat down with award-winning journalist and bestselling author Chris Ballard to discuss his new book, The Plunge, and what cold-water immersion can teach us about resilience, health and aging.

Chris explored the science behind cold plunging, why swimming is one of the best lifelong activities, how embracing discomfort can build resilience, and why confidence comes from taking action, not waiting until you feel ready. He also shared lessons from reporting on extraordinary people who continue to challenge themselves well into later life.

Check out the full episode here.

WHAT HAPPENS TO THE BODY DURING COLD EXPOSURE?

At first, your body reacts as if it’s facing a threat. Adrenaline surges, your heart rate increases and you become extremely alert. But after about 90 seconds, something remarkable happens. Your body shifts into a calmer, more controlled state. Researchers have found it’s one of the few ways to become both highly alert and deeply calm at the same time. Over time, regular cold exposure may also help improve resilience and lower overall stress levels.

SHOULD WE INTENTIONALLY SEEK DISCOMFORT AS WE AGE?

Absolutely. The key is choosing healthy forms of discomfort instead of letting life simply become more comfortable. Whether it’s cold exposure, exercise or trying something completely new, those small, intentional challenges build resilience. As we age, it’s easy to settle into routines, but growth usually happens just outside of them. The challenge doesn’t have to be dramatic. It just has to push you a little beyond where you’re comfortable.

WHY IS SWIMMING SUCH A GOOD ACTIVITY AS WE AGE?

Swimming checks so many boxes. It’s easy on the joints, which becomes increasingly important as we get older, but it still provides a terrific cardiovascular workout. The water also creates gentle compression that improves circulation, and because you’re horizontal, there are additional cardiovascular benefits. Unlike many sports, swimming can adapt to different body types and fitness levels, making it something people can enjoy well into their 80s and 90s.

WHAT’S A REALISTIC WAY TO ADD MORE ADVENTURE TO LIFE?

Pick something that scares you just a little and try it. It doesn’t have to be skydiving or swimming in icy water. The goal is simply to step outside your routine. Novelty keeps us engaged, gives us something to work toward and reminds us we’re still growing. The more often you challenge yourself, the more natural it becomes to keep seeking new experiences.

IF THERE’S ONE LESSON YOU HOPE PEOPLE TAKE AWAY FROM YOUR REPORTING, WHAT IS IT?

Never underestimate yourself. I spent three years reporting on people who continually surprised themselves by trying new things later in life. That became my own experience as well. It’s easy to think, “I’m too old for that,” or, “That’s not who I am anymore.” But we often discover new abilities and new purpose only after we’re willing to step outside our comfort zone.

Gardening can do much more than brighten a landscape. Research shows it can help older adults stay active, eat healthier, find purpose and enhance overall well-being, making it a valuable opportunity for senior living communities.

Laurel Mertz, Senior Research Analyst at the Mather Institute, joined Varsity’s weekly Roundtable to share findings from the organization’s new national study on gardening and healthy aging. She discussed the benefits of gardening, common barriers to participation and practical ways communities can create more accessible, engaging gardening experiences for residents. Below are a few Fresh Perspectives from her discussion.

GARDENING SUPPORTS HEALTHY AGING IN MULTIPLE WAYS

Older adults who garden reported higher levels of gratitude, life satisfaction and purpose, along with more physical activity, healthier eating habits and a stronger connection to nature.

GARDENING MAY BE THE “SNEAKY EXERCISE” OLDER ADULTS NEED

Gardeners reported spending nearly five hours a week gardening during the growing season. Activities like digging, weeding and harvesting can help older adults stay active without feeling like they’re exercising.

INTEREST IN GARDENING EXCEEDS PARTICIPATION

Many older adults who don’t currently garden are interested in community gardens, hydroponics and other gardening experiences. For many, the barriers are confidence, space and accessibility—not a lack of interest.

MAKE GARDENING ACCESSIBLE TO EVERYONE

Raised beds, container gardens, hydroponic systems, gardening mentors and beginner-friendly programs can help overcome common barriers and make gardening possible for more older adults, regardless of physical ability or experience.

TURN GARDENING INTO A COMMUNITY EXPERIENCE

While Mather’s national study didn’t find stronger social outcomes among gardeners, community-based gardening programs, shared spaces and group activities create opportunities for connection, engagement and meaningful resident experiences.

Finding the right senior living community starts long before someone schedules a tour. On an episode of Varsity’s Roundtable Talk, Derek talked with Brad Breeding, founder of MyLifeSite, author of Your Best Path Forward and a nationally recognized expert on helping older adults and their families navigate senior living decisions.

Brad shared why so many families struggle to compare community options, the questions people should ask themselves before beginning a search, and how financial concerns often go far beyond monthly costs. He also discussed the growing influence of adult children, why community culture matters more than flashy amenities and the trends he believes will shape the future of senior living.

Check out the full episode here.

WHAT MAKES NAVIGATING SENIOR LIVING SO CONFUSING FOR FAMILIES?

There are so many different options, but from the outside many of them look the same. Independent living, assisted living and life plan communities can differ significantly in services, pricing and long-term value. Then you add the industry’s terminology, much of which is used differently from one community to another. It’s a lot for families to sort through, especially when they’re making a decision they’ve never faced before.

WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST FEARS PEOPLE HAVE WHEN CONSIDERING SENIOR LIVING?

Cost is one of the biggest concerns, especially what the decision might mean for someone’s estate. Beyond that, many people worry they’re making their final move. They wonder if they’ll like the community or regret the decision after selling their home and leaving familiar surroundings. That’s why spending time in a community and getting to know the people before moving is so valuable.

WHAT ROLE DO ADULT CHILDREN PLAY IN THE SENIOR LIVING DECISION?

Many adult children have firsthand experience with caregiving and understand how emotionally and physically demanding it can be. The question isn’t simply, “How do I care for my parents?” It’s, “What’s the best way to care for them?” Sometimes that’s providing support yourself. Other times it’s helping them find a community that can meet their needs while allowing you to focus on being a son or daughter.

WHERE SHOULD SOMEONE BEGIN WHEN THEY START LOOKING AT SENIOR LIVING?

Start by asking what’s most important to you and why. What concerns do you have? What gives you peace of mind? Once you’ve answered those questions, you can evaluate the different options available. The goal isn’t simply to compare communities. It’s to find the option that best aligns with your priorities and future plans.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE BIGGEST MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT THE COST OF SENIOR LIVING?

Many people assume senior living is simply expensive, but it’s more complicated than that. Different communities include different services and use different pricing models. Especially with life plan communities, it’s important to look beyond the entrance fee and consider the lifetime value, future care costs and overall financial picture.

WHAT DO TODAY’S OLDER ADULTS REALLY WANT FROM SENIOR LIVING?

People often assume they’re looking for luxury amenities, but that’s rarely what I hear. They want a place that’s well managed, where they feel respected, connected and comfortable. They want flexibility, meaningful relationships and confidence in the organization. When I ask residents what they like most about where they live, the answer I hear most often is simple: the people.

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The following is a recap from Varsity’s Roundtable, a weekly virtual gathering of senior living marketers and leaders from across the nation. For updates about future weekly Roundtable gatherings, submit your name and email address here. 

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Caregiving doesn’t begin the day someone moves into senior living or needs help with daily tasks. For many adult daughters, it starts years earlier through the quiet, often invisible work of planning ahead, managing family relationships, carrying emotional burdens and constantly thinking about what’s next. While much of that work goes unnoticed, it can have a profound impact on both the daughter providing support and the aging parent receiving it.

During Varsity’s weekly Roundtable, Dr. Allison Alford, author of Good Daughtering (available on Amazon), explored the hidden realities of family caregiving, why daughters often shoulder responsibilities that others never see, and how senior living professionals can better understand and support them throughout the decision-making process. Below are a few Fresh Perspectives from her discussion.

DAUGHTERING IS MORE THAN CAREGIVING

Supporting an aging parent extends far beyond medications, appointments and daily tasks. Daughters also carry the invisible work of planning, worrying, preserving family traditions and holding relationships together. Recognizing that unseen work is the first step toward addressing it.

EMPATHY MATTERS DURING THE DECISION-MAKING PROCESS

Adult daughters are often balancing guilt, finances, family dynamics and their parent’s wishes all at once. Sales teams that acknowledge those emotions while treating both the daughter and parent with dignity build stronger trust and better relationships.

THE DAUGHTER’S ROLE EVOLVES AFTER THE MOVE

Moving into senior living doesn’t end a daughter’s responsibilities. Her role shifts from hands-on caregiving to advocacy, coordination and emotional support, helping ensure her parent continues to thrive while maintaining family connections.

AIM TO BE A “B+” DAUGHTER, NOT AN “A+” DAUGHTER

Burnout often happens because daughters feel responsible for everything. Setting realistic expectations and healthy boundaries allows them to support their parents while still making room for their own careers, families and well-being.

BECOME THE CEO OF THE CARE TEAM

Instead of trying to do every task yourself, coordinate the people around you. Delegating responsibilities to siblings, spouses, adult grandchildren and the senior living team creates a more sustainable approach and allows daughters to spend more quality time simply being a daughter.

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The following is an excerpt from Your Best Path Forward by Brad Breeding, founder of MyLifeSite and a recent guest on Varsity’s Roundtable Talk podcast. Brad has spent more than 15 years helping older adults and their families navigate senior living decisions with greater confidence and clarity. Check out his full conversation with Derek Dunham on Roundtable Talk.

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In 1950, there were just over 12 million people age 65 and over in the United States, representing around 8% of the total U.S. population. Fast-forward 60 years to the time of the 2010 census, and there were approximately 40 million people age 65-plus, representing about 13% of the total U.S. population.

At that point, as baby boomers began turning 65 at the rate of 10,000 per day, the growth of this age cohort accelerated rapidly, expanding by another 40% over the next decade alone to reach 56 million, or roughly 16% of the U.S. population. The pace of growth in the 65-plus population between 2010 and 2020 averaged about four times the annual growth rate seen over the previous six decades.

This trend is unlikely to slow down anytime soon. By 2040, the 65-plus population is projected to reach 80 million, making up nearly 22% of the total U.S. population. To put this further into perspective, it is expected that within the next 10 years, for the first time in the United States, the number of people age 65 and over will surpass the number of people under the age of 18.

Not only do older adults make up a much larger share of the population today, but they are also living significantly longer. In 1950, a 65-year-old could expect to live about 11 more years, on average. Today, most 65-year-olds can expect to live roughly another 18 years—an increase of about 60%. And of course, many will live well beyond this average, but often not without chronic health conditions requiring some form of long-term care.

This rapid growth in the older adult population, combined with their longer average lifespans, has far-reaching societal implications, placing additional strain on our healthcare systems and federal programs such as Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security, while simultaneously reshaping the labor force and economy. It also brings significant societal challenges, particularly in the availability of paid and family caregivers to support our aging population.

AARP prepared a study in 2013 analyzing the caregiver support ratio in the U.S., which measures the number of potential family caregivers age 45 to 64 for each person age 80 or greater. At the time of the report, there were more than seven potential family caregivers for every person in the high-risk age group of 80-plus. However, the report projected that by 2030, the ratio will decline sharply to 4 to 1, and it is expected to fall to less than 3 to 1 by 2050—a time when nearly all baby boomers will be in the high-risk years of late life. If this projection holds, it will represent a nearly 60% decline in the availability of family caregivers over those 37 years.

Adding further concern to the decline in both paid and family caregiver support is the fact that the number of “solo agers”—people who are growing older without support from a spouse/partner or adult children—is simultaneously increasing in the United States. Since the caregiver support ratio referenced previously only accounts for potential caregivers age 45 to 60, it does not include most spouses and significant others, who are often the first to bear caregiving responsibilities. Yet, the number of individuals age 80-plus who are solo agers is rapidly increasing. According to the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University, there were around 4.5 million people age 80 or over living alone in 2018. By the year 2028, this number is projected to jump to nearly 7 million and then to just over 10 million by 2038.

These statistics raise an important question for our society. Where and how will older adults live and thrive? For far too long, our society has taken a mostly reactive approach to addressing the lifestyle and healthcare needs that we may face in the later years of life. All too often, individuals and families wait until a significant health event occurs before evaluating their options, shifting into crisis management mode without the resources, flexibility in schedule, physical ability, or emotional capacity to handle such a task. Yet, the above statistics make it startlingly clear that it’s more important than ever before to plan for your future, especially for those living alone or without available family caregivers.

Making a plan

While the rate of aging differs from person to person, financial planners and other professional advisors often segment retirement planning into distinct phases. Recognizing that the entire concept of retirement is being redefined, with more people choosing to work beyond the traditional retirement age of 65, planners generally view the early years of retirement as a transitional phase, often lasting about five years after someone retires from their career. This period is marked by the need to reevaluate spending habits, adjust income strategies, and settle into a new daily routine. For many, it’s also a time of rediscovery—figuring out what brings purpose, structure, and fulfillment now that work no longer defines their schedule or identity.

For a person in average to good health, the mid-retirement phase is commonly thought of as the period beginning around the early to mid-70s and lasting until the early 80s, or as long as the person remains able-bodied and high-functioning. Many individuals in this phase can live an independent and active lifestyle today, but this is likely to change as they age.

The late phase of retirement begins when a person’s health has declined to the point of requiring daily living support with little chance of restoration. Statistics from the American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance reveal that nearly 70% of all long-term care insurance claims begin after age 80. At this stage, the goal is that all the planning done during mid-retirement helps to make the transition as smooth and supportive as possible, ensuring a higher quality of life despite the potential for increasing care needs.

If you are approaching or in the mid-retirement phase, now is the time to plan for your later retirement years, while you are still active and able. Delaying important decisions about tomorrow’s needs may leave you and your loved ones facing difficult and often costly situations in the future.

One of the more important and complex decisions to consider in this planning process is where to live. The home and environment in which you live during these retirement phases play a significantly larger role in planning than many people realize and will likely impact nearly every aspect of your life and overall well-being.

Purpose of this book

Beyond motivating you or your loved ones to start planning, the primary goal of this book is to provide clear, straightforward information on the various retirement housing options- including aging in place- while also exploring the key considerations, benefits, and potential challenges of each. It is designed as a launching point to begin the research process as you contemplate the best retirement housing choice for yourself or a loved one with the understanding that even where you live today can potentially shape your future. No single choice is right for every person, and the path that is ultimately best will depend on your own unique set of circumstances and preferences.

There are numerous terms and labels used within and outside the senior living industry to describe the various living options. In this book, I will categorize each type of retirement community and clarify much of the terminology. Still, I urge you not to get too caught up in specific labels because a single term may be used in different ways by different people or organizations. By helping you understand how various retirement living options work and what to look for, you can consider how those options align with your desires and objectives without focusing so much on the labels or terminology.

As you learn about the various retirement living choices, keep in mind that paying for care and access to care are separate issues. For instance, owning long-term care insurance or having a substantial level of savings and assets will help pay for care, but it does not address the other aspect of the issue: where and how your eventual care needs will be provided and the impact it could have on your overall health and well-being.

Remember: You cannot possibly plan for every contingency because it is impossible to know exactly what the future holds, but by understanding the options, considering the pros and cons of each, and having advance conversations with loved ones, medical professionals, senior living providers, and other professional advisors, you can minimize and possibly avoid many headaches (and heartaches) in the future.

QUOTES

“We’re trying to reduce confusion among consumers, and we’re trying to help reduce financial anxiety around this decision.” (Brad)

“If people are confused about senior living or have concerns about affordability, they’re not going to move forward. Those are the things that delay the decision process.” (Brad)

“People don’t often understand that two communities may look very similar but actually work very differently and may be priced very differently.” (Brad)

“It’s so important to think not just about today, but about the future. Not just what it costs today, but what it could cost over your lifetime.” (Brad)

“Moving to a life plan community used to be celebrated as the last move you’d ever have to make. Over the years, I think that almost became a negative because it felt like such a final decision.” (Brad)

“It’s more important than ever to spend time in a community before you move, getting to know residents and making sure it feels like the right fit.” (Brad)

“Caring for a loved one is a privilege, but you also can’t deny how incredibly difficult the caregiving role can be emotionally, physically and even financially.” (Brad)

“What’s really important to me in my life right now, and why? That’s the real starting point.” (Brad)

“Nobody just wakes up and says, ‘I’m going to go check out senior living today.’ Something has caused them to start looking, and that’s what you have to understand.” (Brad)

“We feel the sales counselor should be the best resource someone has in this decision—not just someone representing a community, but someone helping them find what’s truly best for them.” (Brad)

“People just want a place where they feel comfortable, can be themselves, live with people they like, get up every morning, get involved with something and just be happy.” (Brad)

“When I ask residents what they like most about living here, the most popular answer I get is, ‘The people.'” (Brad)

NOTES

Brad Breeding is founder of myLifeSite, author of the newly released Your Best Path Forward and a nationally recognized speaker on senior living decision-making. A former financial advisor, he has spent more than 15 years helping older adults and their families better understand senior living options, financial planning and the aging journey.

Read an excerpt of Your Best Path Forward on the Varsity website.

myLifeSite is a consumer education and financial decision-support platform focused on helping families navigate senior living with greater confidence. The company also partners with senior living organizations, providing educational content and financial planning tools that help prospects better understand their options while supporting community sales and marketing teams.

Before founding myLifeSite in 2011, Brad worked as a financial advisor, where he saw firsthand how difficult senior living decisions could be for families. His newest book, Your Best Path Forward, is the third edition of his longtime consumer guide and explores the many paths available for retirement living. 

myLifeSite’s financial tools, including MoneyGauge, are now used by hundreds of senior living communities to help prospects evaluate affordability, compare scenarios and reduce financial uncertainty.

Brad believes one of the biggest barriers to senior living is confusion. Consumers often struggle to understand the differences between community types, pricing models and industry terminology, making it difficult to compare options.

Many people focus only on what they need today, but Brad encourages families to think about what they may need years from now. The best decision balances current lifestyle with future health, care needs and long-term financial considerations.

Cost concerns are about more than affordability. Many prospective residents worry about how a move could affect their estate, inheritance or long-term financial security, making education and financial transparency essential.

Adult children play an important role in the decision process, but Brad believes planning ahead can reduce caregiving burdens. He encourages families to focus on what provides the best care and quality of life, rather than feeling obligated to provide every aspect of care themselves.

Brad says the search process should begin with self-reflection. Before comparing communities, older adults should identify what’s most important to them, what concerns they have and what peace of mind looks like in the next stage of life.

Rather than acting only as salespeople, Brad believes community sales counselors should become trusted guides who educate prospects, answer difficult financial questions and help people determine which option is truly best for them.

While amenities matter, Brad believes relationships matter more. Residents consistently tell him the people are what they value most, making community culture, resident engagement and a strong sense of belonging more important than luxury features.

Looking ahead, Brad sees wellness and technology becoming even more central to senior living. He expects communities to rely more on partnerships, concierge-style services and holistic wellness programming that deliver greater value while helping residents live healthier, more connected lives.