National Assisted Living Week is celebrated every
September. This year, the theme was “The
Magic of Music.” Numerous assisted
living communities across the country participated and celebrated in various
ways.
For those who have observed long term care for the past
20-30 years, you may have noticed this trend:
nursing home residents of today were on hospital medical/surgical units
20 years ago, and those in assisted living today were in nursing homes 20 years
ago. This shift has resulted in
adjustments for the nursing home and assisted living professions.
Factor in the aging of the consumer-oriented Baby Boomer
generation. These folks are accustomed
to being able to buy whatever they want, whenever they want, wherever they
want. They are far more likely to seek a
second opinion and make their own clinical decisions than previous generations
were. Their microwave mentality values
instant results. They want choices and
options; they don’t accept “no” for an answer.
They want convenience, even if they have to pay a little bit more. They may ask why they have to move locations
and change lifestyles in order to access care; why can’t the care come to
them? As they enter long-term care
systems, they still want these expectations to be met.
These trends are leading to the creation of many new models
of senior living. Licensed facilities
that rely upon government funding (Medicare/Medicaid) are remaining stagnant in
population, while other senior living arrangements are growing. Baby Boomers want to have medical care
available, even if it’s not needed routinely.
Senior living communities now often have medical services available on
campus. Social workers may be available
for some degree of case management.
Concierge services may meet other needs.
These seniors may want a condo-style home with a spa, a golf course, and
other amenities on the property, with a nurse available in case they sprain an
ankle playing tennis.
As new models of senior living are developing, stay tuned to
see how Saint Joseph’s College is keeping up with new trends. A degree program specializing in Senior
Living Leadership is under development.
We are planning to remain on the cutting edge of leadership in aging
services!
