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Top Predictions About the Future of Assisted Living

There are about 46 million senior citizens in the United States, but this number is expected to rise during the next decades. Unfortunately, statistical data suggests that this figure will double in the next 40 years. By 2060, there will be about 98 million senior citizens in the country (data according to a study done by the Population Reference Bureau). For current service providers and retirement communities in PA, meeting the needs of seniors becomes a problem.

The future for Douglasville retirement communities and other specialized nursing homes will look very different. The industry is far from the epic scenes of “The Jetsons”, with moving hallways and robot caregivers, but improvements are definitely becoming visible. Senior living communities will incorporate more hospitality-like architecture and design elements; services will also improve, with a particular focus on life enrichment activities that are more attuned to seniors' needs.

So what does the future hold for Douglasville retirement communities? Let's take a closer look at these top predictions:

#1 – There will be a greater focus on hospitality

Excellent hospitality will always be a hallmark of top senior communities. In the future, however, all senior communities will have to provide excellent services to seniors. The companies active in this sector will have to adapt their services in order to be viable. The reasons are multiple. For instance, consumers will have many more choices when it comes to senior living providers. Moreover, they will look for lifestyle-focused communities, where they will be able to feel at home. They will also look for flexible choices, multiple activities, and premium amenities. Providers will have to continuously innovate, implement new technology, and provide on-demand services to attract seniors. Services like 24/7 concierge, spa treatments, and room service will be common for most retirement communities in PA.

#2 – Technology will be more important in this sector

Modern seniors are more tech-savvy than previous generations. They know how to use mobile devices, computers, and other tech equipment. They are comfortable with modern technology and they want to continue using them. Providers have to make sure they provide seniors with tech amenities. For instance, high-speed wi-fi access will be a must for all areas of the building, not just for the common areas. Personal mobile devices will also be distributed to residents by the service provider. For example, tablets will be provided to residents, preloaded with memory games, brain twisters as well as apps that will be used to order meals or schedule various activities.

Technology will also be used more for communication with families and close friends. Residents' families are already accustomed to communicating with parents and grandparents via email or phone calls, but they will also need to enjoy modern technology. Real-time video communication will be common in just a few years’ time in many retirement communities in PA.

Modern technology is important for medical reasons as well. Wearables are very important for seniors, as they can monitor the heart rate, sleep patterns, and blood pressure. Electronic health records will also be common, as well as the use of telemedicine, which is ideal for physical therapists and speech therapists.

#3 – More urban locations for retirement communities

Many older Americans are moving to urban areas upon retirement. These active seniors want to enjoy the benefits of urban areas – shopping areas, theatres, cinemas, and a vibrant downtown area. Urban senior living communities are targeted precisely for these seniors. These new communities will become important elements of the urban surroundings, similar to parks and recreation centers. Of course, the design of these communities will need to be adapted to their specific needs, ensuring plenty of outdoor spaces and communal dining rooms.

These communities will generally include many open and shared spaces that will be in partnership with the local neighborhood, thus promoting mixing among generations. This will increase the consumer base for common services like entertainment, education venues, restaurants, and spas.

#4 – A personalized approach for each case

Personalized care will be the future for retirement communities in PA. Instead of applying the one-size-fits-all approach, resident care will be personalized for each individual's holistic needs. The care will be adapted to all their needs – from simple culinary options to apartment homes, the interior design, the medical care needed, and so on. Customer services in all areas will be crucial in the future. Future communities will likely be smaller and more specialized, offering flexible services, and will have highly trained staff. New facilities will have larger communal areas so that residents will spend less time in their individual homes or units.

#5 – Enhanced outdoor spaces

A recent study done by the American Public Health Association has shown that people of all ages and abilities enjoy higher levels of well-being and overall health when there is nature nearby. Today's seniors understand the importance of outdoor spaces and nature retreats, so they want to enjoy them. They will no longer be content with a small garden or patio – they will need more ample gardens, parks, and pathways to ponds and gazebos. The future of Douglasville retirement communities will be very green, that's a certainty.

#6 – Lifelong learning for everyone

Education is key for everyone, young or old. Lifelong learning is key for retirement communities in the future and everyone will be able to enjoy this service. New classes, courses, guest speakers, new experiences, and online language learning are just a few services that will be the norm in the future. Lifelong education works both ways – some communities may organize courses or classes for younger generations. Seniors will be able to teach high schoolers various topics, arts, and crafts. Everyone will get to enjoy the benefits of living in a senior community – seniors will be able to learn and teach, while also being productive for the community.

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