A special care unit (SCU) is an inpatient area within a healthcare facility that is specifically designed, staffed, and equipped to treat people with particular medical needs. SCUs are typically separated physically from other patient areas to provide focused care and a safer environment. While SCUs have traditionally been found in hospitals, they are increasingly … Read more

With heightened social isolation during the pandemic, technology has become a vital lifeline for many older adults. Missing in-person visits with friends, family gatherings, and celebrations, seniors have relied on tools like Zoom, FaceTime, and social media to maintain connections across distances. These tools do not replace face-to-face contact, but the pandemic accelerated adoption and … Read more

It has been a challenging year for almost everyone. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought anxiety, isolation, and grief, but it has also revealed countless acts of kindness, community, and a renewed focus on what matters most. As we celebrate Thanksgiving, residents from continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs or life plan communities) across the country shared … Read more

In this blog series, we examine the differences between activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs), and what happens when they become difficult for a person. In part one of our blog series “ADLs vs. IADLs,” we defined activities of daily living (ADLs) as the essential self-care tasks—such as bathing … Read more

“Dost thou love life? Then do not squander time; for that’s the stuff life is made of.” —Benjamin Franklin, Poor Richard’s Almanack, 1746 We’ve all experienced it: press the up or down button, wait, listen to pulleys and gears, and then—finally—the doors open. You step in, select your floor, the doors close, and you wait … Read more

The winter holidays bring joy for many—rich traditions, festive meals, and cherished moments with family and friends. But for some older adults, this season can also bring sadness and isolation. Missing distant relatives or grieving those who have passed is common, yet when these feelings return year after year during the colder months, they may … Read more

Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives evaluate a company’s environmental practices, ethical conduct, and governance policies. In investing, ESG has become an important criterion for selecting businesses. In senior living, ESG is gaining traction not only because investors and regulators prioritize it, but also because prospective residents expect communities to operate responsibly and sustainably. Giving … Read more

The start of a new year is a natural moment to look ahead, consider opportunities, and set resolutions for positive change. Some goals are small adjustments to daily routines; others are major life shifts. If you are a senior who is retired or approaching retirement and want to make meaningful changes this year, the following … Read more

Prospective residents considering continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs), also known as life plan communities, face an important decision. Selecting a community affects long-term quality of life, finances, and healthcare, so it’s essential to be well informed. Asking the right questions helps ensure you choose a CCRC that fits your needs and expectations. 5 key questions … Read more

Although many 55-plus communities operate as distinct micro-villages, they remain interconnected with the towns and neighborhoods around them. This relationship is often mutually beneficial: retirement communities draw employees from nearby areas, while the surrounding community benefits from the jobs, local spending, and services these campuses provide. One particularly effective way senior living communities enhance those … Read more