CREJ

Page 18 — Health Care & Senior Housing Quarterly — April 2021 www.crej.com INSIDE 2 030 marks an important milestone, according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s national population projections. Starting in 2030, when all boomers will be older than 65, older Americans will make up 21% of the population, up from 15%. By 2060, nearly one in four Americans will be 65 years and older, the number of 85-plus will triple and the country will add a half-million centenarians. It is no surprise that with this grow- ing number of older adults, the coun- try could see even greater demands for health care, in-home caregiving and assisted living communities. Currently, 10,000 baby boomers per day are turning 65. These “seniors” are young at heart and want to live a life of purpose near family and friends in an ame- nity-rich environ- ment, often in the same neighborhood where they raised their families. This cohort wants to feel connected and valued. Physi- cal and emotional connections are key. The objective, therefore, is to design communi- ties for older adults that facilitate stronger and more rewarding connections – connections to family and friends, connections to the outdoors, the neighborhood and the community at large – and have programming options that engage them. n Location. Savvy developers are exploring sites that are located within retail and cultural districts near transit. Even if the seniors are unable to get around on their own, a family member easily still can take them nearby for a meal, shopping or entertainment. The neighborhood and what it offers is an important amenity to not only the residents and staff of the senior living com- munity but also those who come to visit the seniors. Studies have shown that a resident receives more visitors when the assisted living community is located near major thoroughfares or transportation hubs. The other part of the equation is how the senior living community physically connects to the neighborhood. For example, are there wide sidewalks or pathways offering safe travel for a caregiver pushing someone in a wheelchair between the senior living community and retailers and restau- rants? Does the design welcome visi- tors or does it feel like a fortress? n Public engagement. These seniors are highly educated as a group and want to remain active in mind, body and spirit. Intergenerational social- ization opportunities and the pos- sible benefits of forming informal partnerships with local retailers and community groups are exciting ways to connect seniors with the com- munity and the younger generation. We designed an enriched-services senior living community in Northern California on the campus of a pri- vate K-12 school that is specifically designed to provide numerous inter- generational and volunteer opportu- Developments must delicately balance new safety needs with community benefits To transform communities, start by redefining the main priorities for residents Reimagining projects Community trends PAGE 21 PAGE 22 Ben Seager, AIA, LEED AP Associate principal, KTGY Despite a challenging year, activity on the ground still is moving forward Broker insights PAGE 19 The latest in senior housing design trends April 2021 Please see Page 24 Frank Ooms Vita Littleton is a sustainable, LEED Gold certified community that celebrates a pedestrian-friendly lifestyle, on-site neighborhood eatery and historic Main Street – all steps from the RTD light-rail station with easy access to the greater Denver area. Within the community, 80% of the apartment units must be occupied by at least one person 55 years of age.