If there’s one thing we’ve learned from 2020, is that it’s impossible to predict the future. With vaccines becoming available, everyone hopes that move-ins and sales increase in the senior living sector.
Here are several things we can anticipate in the upcoming months.
Response to staff fatigue
Front line associates and community leaders have been in the middle of a continued burnout. With outbreaks, condensed roles, lengthy restrictions; many are looking for the exit.
On the safety side, many have felt supported by frequent meetings and continued safety precautions, but the emotional weight has been significant. In order to retain staff, community leaders are going to frequently check-in on their teammates to make sure they’re not drained.
Technological advancements
The pandemic has accelerated the growth of many tech companies. As the rest of the economy receded, big tech made significant gains when the world went remote. People who had never used Zoom in their life, now consider it an essential service. In the world of senior living, the already growing services of telehealth became part of the standard for skilled nursing facilities. The industry will continue to see the evolution of virtual care services that provide cost-efficient methods for high-quality care.
Now is also the time to come up with solutions to meet the world’s non-traditional demands. Some services are here to stay, but others are band-aids designed as temporary solutions.
Increased focus on socialization
Communities have prioritized safety above everything else, but those that are also focused on providing (safe) social outlets for their residents will rise to the top in 2021. There are many tools facilities can use in order to keep residents engaged through bleak times. Communities that frequently engage with seniors and ask them what they need to feel happy and safe, will meet high levels of resident satisfaction.
Prioritization of wellness
Wellness is more than just a buzzword. It’s a lifestyle that communities have incorporated into their culture. Seniors are looking for programs that are focused on lifelong learning, exercise, health education, nutrition education and intergenerational programs.
Pet-friendly spaces
Nearly 60 percent of homes have a pet. The desire to own furry friends doesn’t go away with age. If anything, the pandemic has encouraged seniors to keep a pet, in order to avoid complete isolation. While this isn’t an option for all facilities, it is certainly a huge perk of many independent and assisted living communities.