
Future Healthcare Trends: What the experts are saying.
The Baby Boomer Generation, Technology and Coordinated Healthcare are the three critical elements shaping the future of Assisted Living, Independent Living, Continuing Care Communities and Skilled Nursing Facilities as reported by many of the experts in the Healthcare Industry.
As Baby Boomers approach retirement age, the senior living industry has to address the needs and demands of the Boomers who are active, tech-savvy and who are living longer. Boomers will approach retirement in a whole new way. Providers of healthcare facilities must keep up with the demands in order to stay in business and be competitive. In the future expect to see more emphasis on amenities. It will be easier for larger communities like CCRC’s to offer a wider variety of events and services. Boomers want to be more physically and mentally active. Senior living communities will offer more education opportunities, including online learning options. There will be more recreational and fitness options promoting ‘whole person wellness” which observes the physical, emotional and spiritual aspect of the retiree. Diversity is important to Boomers because they grew up during a radically different social and political environment than previous generations. Retirement communities for distinct ethnic groups, which offer the benefits of a common language and culture will be an option offered to seniors. Other communities will be designed to offer lifestyle choices.
The experts report that technology creates the greatest difference between the life of seniors of the past generations and the lives of Boomers and future generations. Baby Boomers are particularly tech-savvy and will drive the senior living industry toward wireless connectivity. “Smart homes” are built to accommodate wireless technology to help boost the independence and safety of older adults. Seniors are able to be more independent and also are able to contact family and care givers when needed.
Collaboration and Integration in the Healthcare Industry are aspects which are changing and shaping the future as Providers seek additional strength to cut costs and improve the quality of care for residents. As reported by Dr. Thomas Lee at the October Nic conference there is a great need for collaboration and integration of organizations that work with seniors, including healthcare providers and housing groups. Vertical Integration between types of Senior Care effectively organizes senior care between senior community and hospital. Evidence of this trend is notable today and will become a driving force in the future as the Healthcare industry gains more sophistication.
So the future looks bright for the Healthcare Industry. Retirement takes on a completely new look as providers adjust and comply with the needs of the upcoming generations. Existing providers recognize and respond to the change, and new investors to healthcare are emerging to bridge the gap between supply and demand.