The Interface Conference in Atlanta proposed some interesting questions with possible answers. Everyone talks about the first baby boomers turning 72, intimating that this is a positive for senior living. But the average entry age for senior living properties is about 85, depending on who you talk to, so there is a long time to wait for the first baby boomer. Not surprisingly, developers are starting to think about how to attract baby boomer retirees. Minimal, à la carte services in an affordable, yet reasonably sized apartment is one. Home health care can be layered on at a later date. One provider is using food trucks for his kitchen, a different truck, with different types of food every night. It’s amazing to me to see the number of people my age retiring. Though they are closer to 60, there is a discussion of downsizing, lower maintenance, more freedom, and more community/fun. The stuff they would want isn’t what is being built today, and is what keeps this ever-changing business interesting.
Peter Douglas, P.E.
President
The Douglas Company