As the senior living sector evolves, much of the discussion has centered on two visible trends: older adults choosing to remain in their own homes (aging in place) and the rise of active adult communities that appeal to younger retirees. A quieter but potentially disruptive shift is also underway across the country: the growing adoption … Read more

After a recent talk at a retirement community, a guest approached me and said he wants to move to a continuing care retirement community (CCRC) but feels overwhelmed by the prospect of downsizing. He described owning more than 10 acres, several animals, and a large house, and asked, “How do I go from that to … Read more

If you’ve shopped for groceries recently, you may have noticed higher prices. USDA forecasts show grocery costs are expected to rise about 3 percent this year. Beef leads the increase, projected to be up roughly 8 percent compared with 2019, while pork is up about 4.5 percent and poultry around 3 percent. Such increases are … Read more

When deciding whether to move to a continuing care retirement community (CCRC), also known as a life plan community, there are many factors to weigh. Financial details and contract terms matter greatly, but another consideration—one you won’t find in a brochure—can be just as important: your day-to-day happiness living there. Happiness applies to anyone choosing … Read more

According to the latest CDC statistics, nearly 2.1 million Americans live in the nation’s approximately 46,200 long-term care facilities. That total includes about 30,600 assisted living communities housing roughly 820,000 residents and 15,600 skilled nursing facilities (often called nursing homes) with about 1.3 million residents. Many of these individuals are among the most vulnerable in … Read more

You’ve likely heard the tragic story of the LifeCare Center nursing home in Kirkland, Washington, an early epicenter of the COVID-19 outbreak in that state. At least 35 residents and staff from that long-term care community died after contracting the virus. What went wrong Senior living communities are generally prepared to confront contagious illnesses such … Read more

A large majority of older adults want to remain in their own homes as they age. According to AARP research, nearly 90 percent of seniors prefer to “age in place.” While that goal is understandable, it can bring challenges for both seniors and their families. Caregivers often face increasing mental, physical, and financial strain when … Read more

In a world that often prizes size — from cars to houses to possessions — bigger is commonly equated with success. But when it comes to senior living, bigger isn’t always better. Smaller independent living residences can offer many advantages: lower cost, less maintenance, and access to a wide range of community services and amenities … Read more

As older adults explore senior living choices, it helps to understand a key federal law that affects many 55+ communities: the Housing for Older Persons Act (HOPA) of 1995. This statute protects age-restricted retirement communities designed for older adults while establishing standards that promote fairness and clarity about eligibility and operation. If you’re thinking about … 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. Instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) are the more complex daily tasks that support independent living in the community — activities such as managing … Read more