Many are Choosing Not to Play the Waiting Game
Good things may come to those who wait, but that may not be the case when it comes to finding the right senior living community for you or your loved ones.
Currently, there are approximately 73 million Baby Boomers in the U.S. – individuals born between 1946 and 1964 – with more than 4 million turning 65 each year. By 2035, the population over age 80 is expected to double.
“The reality is, for economic and other logistical reasons, there may be a shortage of senior living options over the next decade,” said Roberta McMenamin, VP/Sr. Director of Operations at Life Care Services (LCS), the fourth-largest manager of senior living communities in the nation, including Blakehurst. “And it’s even more prevalent in major metros such as Baltimore, where the ‘silver tsunami,’ as it is called, projects a 45 percent increase in people over age 75 in the next decade.”
According to McMenamin, the senior living industry is at a critical juncture. There is certainly a need to look to the future and prepare for this increase in demand. But there is also an opportunity to educate the market now on the benefits of this type of living environment, as some Baby Boomers consider making this move earlier.
“The demand for high-quality senior living options continues to grow, and we are starting to see interest from younger people around the country who recognize the lifestyle rewards of making the decision sooner rather than later,” added McMenamin. “There may be a supply and demand issue, but there are also lifestyle factors at play,” said Elizabeth O’Connor, Director of Sales and Marketing at Blakehurst. “Residents at Blakehurst encourage their friends not to wait, often saying, “you can never get here too soon, but you can arrive too late and miss the great opportunities offered.”
When seniors decide to move earlier, especially while in better health, there is more flexibility and freedom to shape their environments, including preferences for activities, dining, social engagement, and physical fitness.
“Boomers understand today’s senior living options are not what their parents experienced,” said Lonny Blessing, Executive Director at Blakehurst. “Independence, all-inclusive amenities, and progressive levels of healthcare are all attractive to this generation, not to mention the peace of mind that comes from not worrying about maintenance around their home and grounds, as well as locking in healthcare and living expenses – another benefit of a CCRC.”
Blakehurst is meeting these expectations, in part, with its recent $16 million renovation. “Our goal is to provide the best retirement lifestyle for future generations in the Baltimore region,” added Blessing. “This renovation is enhancing every aspect of life at Blakehurst, with our three new dining venues, an upgraded wellness and aquatic center, and enhanced amenities and modern design touches throughout our community.”
This generation of seniors is demanding more choices on how to personalize their spaces, as well as their healthy lifestyle and social activities. Options for staying mentally and physically fit, outlets for creative and Intellectual stimulation, and a purpose-driven lifestyle filled with mentoring, volunteering, and community involvement opportunities are also things this generation is looking for and actively seeking to participate in as they age.
“The Baby Boomer generation is approaching their ‘next’ life stage with different ideas on how they want to live—not just age,” concluded O’Connor. “It’s also comforting for family members, knowing their loved ones are in a vibrant, secure, and engaging community supported by both staff and other residents.
Today’s seniors aren’t waiting for “someday.” Considering all of these factors, they’re choosing vibrant communities that help them live well now. Aging doesn’t mean slowing down—it means curating a life that fits your evolving passions and priorities.
Contact us today to learn more about these trends and schedule a tour. To learn more about life at Blakehurst, visit blakehurstlcs.com.