Category: Educational

September marks World Alzheimer’s Month. It’s a time to raise global awareness about Alzheimer’s related dementia, its devastating impact on families, and its societal cost.

Alzheimer’s and dementia afflict about 55 million people worldwide and is expected to rise to 139 million by 2050. Since Alzheimer’s Disease was identified in 1930, there is no vaccine that can prevent it, and no treatment has yet been found to stop its progression or the dementia that is caused by it.

Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI) is a federation of Alzheimer’s associations around the world. ADI sponsors international conferences and surveys, and each year they publish the World Alzheimer’s report. The World Report for 2025 explores “Reimagining life with dementia – the power of rehabilitation.”

Surprising Findings About Alzheimer’s and Dementia

The World Alzheimer Report 2025 highlights an often-overlooked part of dementia care: rehabilitation. The report shows that rehabilitation is not simply about recovering from an injury. For people living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, it can help preserve independence, support daily activities and improve quality of life.

• Dementia rehabilitation can help people remain independent longer. Rehabilitation can focus on practical goals such as preparing meals, shopping, communicating, moving safely and managing everyday self-care. A personalized approach may help people maintain these abilities for longer.

• Some people with dementia who receive cognitive rehabilitation may stay in their own homes longer. The report highlights research showing that people who received personalized cognitive rehabilitation experienced less disability and remained at home an average of six months longer before moving into residential care compared with people receiving standard care.

• Rehabilitation is still surprisingly uncommon in dementia care. Despite evidence that people with dementia can benefit from rehabilitation, access remains limited. Even countries with national dementia strategies do not always fully integrate rehabilitation into dementia care.

• Falls and seizures are important but sometimes overlooked concerns. People living with dementia experience injury-causing falls two to three times more often than people of the same age without dementia. Seizures can also be up to seven times more common. Changes to the home and other environments may help reduce certain risks and make everyday activities safer. Learn more about fall prevention.

• Rehabilitation can benefit the entire family, not just the person with dementia. Helping someone maintain independence and participate in everyday activities can also reduce some of the demands placed on family caregivers. This is especially significant because informal care provided by family and friends represents roughly half of the global economic cost of dementia.

• Dementia care does not have to stop at diagnosis. Perhaps the most important message from the report is that there is still plenty that can be done after a dementia diagnosis. Person-centered rehabilitation can focus on meaningful goals, preserve abilities and support independence throughout different stages of the condition.

Together, these findings point to an important shift in the way dementia care is viewed. Care is not only about managing decline. It can also be about helping people preserve their abilities, remain engaged in everyday life and maintain independence at home for as long as possible.

Reducing the Stigma

Along with working harder to ensure that Alzheimer’s is understood as a disease, reducing the stigma also needs work.

People in the early stages of dementia are often reluctant to seek help because of the stereotypes and prejudice they fear. 

Do you have questions about memory care? Take our free memory care assessment.

Denial and not seeking help early may lead to more negative outcomes for the person. This self-stigma leads to avoiding social interactions, and not benefitting from dementia-appropriate services.

Stigma also extends to caregivers and families of people living with dementia.

By default, stigma has a negative impact on research and research participation that could lead to a treatment breakthrough. Improving awareness, and debunking myths that dementia is a normal part of aging, is critical.

We can all play a role in fighting dementia and its stigma by increasing our own understanding of the disease during World Alzheimer’s Month.

For information about Alzheimer’s support and education programs, please visit  https://www.alz.org         

Learn more about memory care in Westchester County at The Osborn.                                         

The information in the above article is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Carol Klein and Marie McIntyre at The Osborn’s resident-run iPad Clinic.

Carol Klein and Marie McIntyre have a lot in common: they live at The Osborn, are in their 90s, and are witty, wise and curious. They also share a passion for learning, which is proving to be contagious.

Carol and Marie volunteer at an informal “iPad Clinic” on campus to help fellow residents navigate the ever-evolving digital landscape. But their story is about so much more than technology. It’s about purpose, generosity and lifelong learning. Technology is simply the vehicle.

Residents gather at the clinic carrying phones, tablets and laptops – and sometimes a healthy dose of frustration. Marie and Carol patiently help troubleshoot everything from forgotten passwords to sending family photos. They’re quick to point out they aren’t technology gurus.

“We Google a lot,” Carol said, and laughed. “And we ask AI.”

From a Class to a Clinic

The clinic has evolved from an occasional resource into a growing resident-led program with the addition of new volunteers. Residents can now receive tech support, usually four times a month, with clinics held on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Support from The Osborn’s IT team is available as well, and Marie and Carol occasionally make house calls.

Carol became involved with the clinic a few years ago, after attending an on-campus iPad class as an “observer” who found herself frequently helping fellow residents there. The class was offered by the IT department at The Osborn. “Eventually, IT realized that a class was not the most efficient way to address everyone’s individual questions, so it evolved into a clinic,” Carol said. “And voilà – Marie and I were it.”

The name, iPad Clinic, stuck although residents can bring in any device – a phone, tablet or computer. Questions range from the basics, such as, “How do I turn off my phone?” or “How do I use the calculator app?” to some very challenging queries.

“Many people are simply afraid of their devices, particularly when they are just starting out,” Marie said. “They’ll say, ‘It’s too complicated. I can’t do that.’ We encourage them to keep trying and show them that they can do it. We’re therapists in disguise.”

Where Their Own Confidence Came From

When computers were first being introduced, Marie recalled, she was working at Thomson Corp. of America, a French electronics company. “They sent me to computer classes. I learned I couldn’t ruin anything. I couldn’t break it. I could turn it off, and it would be all right. Even that small amount of confidence can make a tremendous difference,” Marie said.

Carol, too, embraced technology early on, while teaching chemistry at Westchester Community College.

“When personal computers first came out, several of us in the various science departments went to Radio Shack to learn the basics,” Carol said. “As technology evolved, SUNY launched an initiative focused on online learning, and we became what they called ‘distance learning buddies,’ helping faculty adapt to new technology. If I don’t know how to do something, I’ll figure it out. Google it. That’s what we do.”

Lighter Moments at the Clinic

In addition to troubleshooting and support, there also are some lighter moments at the clinic.

“One of my favorites was when a resident came in and said she wanted to learn how to take a selfie,” said Carol. “So, I showed her how, we took the picture, and she looked at it and said, ‘That is not me.’ Then she got up and left.”

“I had a resident call me because she couldn’t get anything to work on her iPhone,” Marie added. “I said, ‘Turn it off.’ She replied, ‘Oh, I can’t do that. I’ll lose everything. Can you come to my apartment?’ So, I went over, turned her phone off, turned it back on, and everything came right back. She looked at me and said, ‘You’re a genius,’ and then she gave me a lollipop.”

Beyond the Devices

There’s much more to life at The Osborn beyond technology, however. For Carol, that’s spending time with Lennox, her mixed-breed rescue dog. Marie helps husband John with finding lyrics for his sing-alongs. Both women are very active in The Osborn community, which they agree encourages people to keep learning and sharing their talents.

“You don’t stop learning…you have to keep learning or your life is over,” said Marie. “John and I often have dinner with people who are considering moving to The Osborn, and many of them say, ‘We’re not ready yet. We’re still active.’ We tell them that’s exactly why they should come while they’re still able to enjoy everything that’s here.”

Carol agreed: “We have so many residents who are eager to share what they know or start something new. We have a retired biochemist who started a poker group, a retired neurobiologist who teaches Mahjong, a retired history professor who organizes hikes and card games, and a retired judge who helped expand our bridge program. It’s not just about what people did professionally – it’s about what they’re interested in now.

“The administration is also very receptive to new ideas. That’s really the beauty of it. You can be as independent as you want to be. It’s entirely up to you.”

Learn More About Independent Living at The Osborn

Psoriasis Explained

Psoriasis (pronounced Sor-eye-ah-sis) comes from the ancient Greek word psora — meaning itch. Psoriasis is a common, chronic skin disease. Its most prevalent form, plaque psoriasis, is characterized by raised, scaly patches of skin that can be itchy and painful. Psoriasis commonly occurs on the knees, elbows, trunk, and scalp, but it can also appear on the face or genitals. Since August is National Psoriasis Awareness month, we want to share information about it because it is often a misunderstood medical issue.

On white skin, psoriasis plaques appear as raised, red patches covered with a silvery white buildup of dead skin cells (scale). On skin of color, plaques may appear darker and thicker and a purple or grayish color, or darker brown.

Psoriasis tends to go through cycles, flaring for a few weeks or months, then subsiding for a while or going into remission. It can be limited to one or two patches that are hidden under clothing, or it can cover half to three-quarters of a person’s body. It is not contagious, but observers can confuse it with herpes or other transmissible skin diseases. This stigmatizes those with psoriasis, often resulting in anxiety or depression.

Psoriasis is an inflammatory condition. People with psoriasis are more likely to have other conditions linked to inflammation. These conditions include heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

Risk Factors and Psoriasis Triggers

While it is an autoimmune disease, the exact cause of psoriasis is unknown. As in all autoimmune disorders, parts of the body’s immune system become overactive and attack normal tissues.

Research indicates that genetics and environmental factors play a role in psoriasis.  If your parent or parents have psoriasis, for example, your chances of developing it are greatly increased. About one-third of cases begin in childhood.

But anyone can develop psoriasis.  According to a 2021 JAMA Dermatology study, more than 7.5 million American adults have psoriasis.

High stress levels can make one more susceptible to psoriasis, because stress is known to affect the immune system. Smoking tobacco also increases the risk of developing psoriasis, and can increase its severity.

People who are more likely to develop psoriasis may be symptom free until the disease is activated.  According to the Mayo Clinic, common environmental ‘triggers’ include:

• Infections, like strep throat or skin infection
• Weather, especially cold and dryness
• Skin injuries: scrapes, cuts, bug bites, severe sunburn
• Smoking, and second-hand smoke exposure
• Heavy alcohol use
• Lithium, blood-pressure, and anti-malarial medications
• Rapid withdrawal of corticosteroids

Complications

About one-third of psoriasis sufferers develop psoriatic arthritis, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling of the joints. It can also occur in people without skin eruptions, especially if they have relatives with psoriasis. Since this condition can cause permanent joint destruction, it’s important to consult a rheumatologist to determine treatment.

Treatments

Treatment for psoriasis begins with a correct diagnosis by a dermatologist. In early stages, psoriatic lesions may be confused with other skin conditions. Depending on the severity of the disease, treatment may be as simple as topical creams or ointments, over-the-counter, or prescription.

Phototherapy treatments (exposing the skin to ultraviolet light) may be prescribed by a dermatologist. Light therapy can be tailored to small surface areas, like hands or feet, or to full body. To be effective, light therapy must be consistent.

Oral, systemic medications work throughout the body to treat moderate-to-severe psoriasis. They are also used by those for whom topical medications or light therapy are not effective.

Biologics are drugs administered by injection or infusion that target specific immune cells or proteins. Biologics present an option for people who do not respond to, or have had harmful side effects from other treatments.

In addition to these therapies, people with psoriasis can stay abreast of the latest research and coping strategies at the National Psoriasis Foundation’s website. The site includes a one-on-one peer support program, and an official online community of 90,000 people living with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.

Psoriasis is a medical issue that is often misinterpreted by those who experience it and by those who see it on others. Knowing the facts about it can help all of us deal with it a little more effectively.

The information in the above article is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Splish, Splash: Swimming for Exercise

How can you exercise all your muscles, avoid injury, and not break a sweat?

If you guessed walking, biking, or weight lifting, you’re mistaken.

Swimming is the way to go. Highly recommended by physicians and physical therapists, “swimming is the fourth most popular sports activity in the United States and a good way to get regular aerobic physical activity. Swimmers can exercise longer in water than on land without increased effort or joint or muscle pain.” (CDC). One of the amenities at The Osborn is an indoor pool.

Myriad Benefits of Swimming

• Full body workout. Swimming uses all the muscles in the body, so you get a total body workout, regardless of your preferred stroke. Water resistance makes your body worker harder than regular exercise so basically 30 minutes in a pool is worth 45 minutes of exercise on land. In addition to a great cardio workout, swimming increases strength, endurance, and flexibility.
• Less stress on body. Water supports up to 90 percent of the body’s weight, putting less stress on muscles and joints. If you suffer from previous injuries or arthritis, you can avoid further injury and pain.
• Efficient calorie burning. A gentle 30-minute swim can burn over 200 calories –more than double that of walking. And a faster swim can burn calories faster than running or cycling.
• Lowered disease risk. As cardiovascular exercise, swimming even 30 minutes a week protects against heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.
• Increased wellbeing. Inactivity–not aging–is responsible for a lack of energy. Thirty minutes of swimming, three times per week, increases metabolic rate and boosts energy levels. Water also lowers stress levels, reduces anxiety and depression, and supports better sleep.

Use Your Noodle

Not a swimmer? You can reap the same benefits by exercising in water instead of on land.

‘Noodles,’ are colorful foam tubes that keep you buoyant in water. They also become a piece of exercise equipment in Water Aerobics. Classes can be found in many public and private pools, including at The Osborn.

Whether you participate in a class or paddle around alone, there are several ways to perform exercise in water that achieve the same benefits as walking, weight lifting, or swimming. Some examples:

• Swimming with a kickboard, using only your legs to propel yourself. Or, hold onto the pool edge and practice kicks, keeping your legs straight and making steady up-and-down movements, alternating each leg.
• Water walking, either staying in one place or propelling yourself from one end of the pool to the other. Water walking is an easy way to get your body moving and grow comfortable with the idea of a water workout. If you’re up to it, try dialing up the tempo and move into a jog.
• Pumping (foam) dumbbells strengthens arm muscles similarly to using actual iron dumbbells on land.

Just 30 minutes of aquatic exercise, three times a week, alongside a balanced, healthy diet and lifestyle, is good practice to stay physically and mentally fit, no matter what your age.

Besides access to water, swimming requires a short list of equipment: bathing suit, towel, and goggles. Add in a few foam ‘weights’ and noodles, and you can approximate a cool gym workout.

Everybody in the pool!

The information in the above article is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Learn more about the amenities at The Osborn, including the WellSpring wellness program for healthy independent senior living in Westchster County.

Frequently Asked Questions About Swimming for Seniors

Is swimming a good exercise for seniors?

Yes, swimming is often considered one of the best forms of exercise for older adults. It supports heart health, flexibility, muscle strength, and balance while placing less pressure on joints than many land-based activities. Because the water helps support body weight, swimming can be a comfortable way for seniors to stay active and maintain mobility.

What are the health benefits of swimming for seniors?

Swimming offers a variety of health benefits for seniors. Regular water exercise may help improve circulation, strengthen muscles, increase flexibility, and support better balance. Many older adults also find swimming relaxing, making it helpful for reducing stress and supporting overall emotional well-being. Since it is low impact, it can be easier on aging joints than activities like running or high-impact fitness classes.

Can swimming help older adults with arthritis?

Swimming may be especially helpful for seniors living with arthritis or joint stiffness. Water naturally reduces pressure on the hips, knees, ankles, and back, allowing movement to feel more comfortable. Many older adults find that aquatic exercise helps improve range of motion and makes it easier to stay physically active without increasing discomfort.

Is swimming better than walking for seniors?

Both swimming and walking can support healthy aging, but the right option depends on a person’s needs and preferences. Walking may help maintain bone strength and is convenient for daily activity, while swimming is often ideal for seniors dealing with joint pain, balance concerns, or mobility challenges because it reduces impact on the body. Many older adults benefit from combining both activities in their wellness routine.

How often should seniors go swimming?

The right swimming schedule depends on overall health and fitness goals, but many older adults enjoy swimming or participating in water fitness classes several times per week. Starting slowly and gradually increasing activity levels can help prevent soreness or fatigue. Seniors beginning a new exercise routine should check with a healthcare provider, especially after surgery, illness, or injury.

Can swimming help improve balance and reduce fall risk?

Swimming and water exercise may help seniors improve strength, coordination, and stability, which are all important for maintaining balance. Exercising in water can also feel safer because it provides support while reducing strain on the body. Better muscle control and mobility may contribute to greater confidence with everyday movement.

Can seniors with mobility challenges swim safely?

In many cases, yes. Swimming and aquatic exercise can be a good option for older adults with limited mobility because water supports movement and reduces pressure on joints. Seniors may feel more comfortable using pools with gradual entry areas, handrails, or instructor-led programs designed for older adults. It is always a good idea to speak with a physician before starting a new physical activity program.

What if an older adult does not know how to swim?

Seniors do not have to be experienced swimmers to enjoy the benefits of being in the water. Activities such as water walking, gentle aquatic fitness classes, or shallow-water stretching can provide many of the same wellness benefits. Beginner swim lessons may also help older adults build confidence and feel more comfortable in the pool.

Is water aerobics good for seniors?

Water aerobics can be an excellent exercise option for older adults. These classes often focus on improving flexibility, strength, cardiovascular health, and balance while minimizing stress on joints. For seniors who prefer structured activities or are not interested in lap swimming, water aerobics may be an enjoyable way to stay active.

Why do senior living communities offer swimming pools and aquatic wellness programs?

Many retirement communities include pools and wellness programs because water-based exercise supports active, healthy aging. Access to swimming, water aerobics, and guided fitness programs can help older adults stay physically active, maintain mobility, and enjoy meaningful social engagement. Wellness amenities may also make it easier to build healthy habits into everyday life.

Learn more about The Osborn’s luxury Independent Living options in Westchester County. The Osborn is designed for exceptional living, every step of the way.

Searching for ways to step up your skincare routine and have healthier skin? Let’s face it: Our skin changes with age. We all know that over time the skin becomes thinner, loses fat, and no longer looks as plump, vibrant, and smooth as it once did. What’s more, some scratches or bumps can take longer to heal and years of sun tanning can take its toll and lead to wrinkles, dryness, and age spots. Sounds like a downer? Perhaps, but there are so many things you can do to protect your skin and make it feel better, healthier, and even more beautiful.

We hope you will follow the recommendations below and transform your appearance, which may also affect the way you feel about yourself.

Adjust your bath and shower routine

When it comes to maintaining a healthy-looking skin, your bath time routine can make or break a deal. In fact, according to American Academy of Dermatology Association (AADA), just a few simple changes to your bath time can alleviate dry and itchy skin and prevent it from evolving into a bigger and more serious problem. You may want to wash with a gentle, moisturizing, and fragrance-free soap or body wash. Please keep in mind that there are a few moisturizing ingredients such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and lanolin that can help reduce dryness. Make sure you avoid water that it too hot as it may strip your skin of its natural oils and keep your bath or shower short. In addition, AADA recommends using a creamy, fragrance-free moisturizer after bathing to help retain water in your skin.

Hydration is key

One of the easiest secrets to healthy skin is staying hydrated. Easy enough, isn’t it? As we get older, our skin tends to become drier making moisturizing more crucial than ever before. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. Furthermore, according to dermatology specialists, using a high-quality moisturizer can lock in moisture and prevent dryness, leaving your skin feeling supple, reinvigorated, and refreshed.

Too much sun is NOT your friend

Most people realize that some sun is good for us. That being said, repeated or long-term exposure to the sun’s UV light can be the main cause of premature aging of the skin. Basking in the sun for too long may result in drying of the skin, sunburn, premature aging, and actinic keratosis – tiny rough bumps or small scaly patches of skin with a pink, red, yellow, or brownish tint. Also, sunburn can increase your chance of developing skin cancers. Make sunscreen a daily essential, even on cloudy days, and incorporate a broad spectrum SPF of at least 30.

Revisit your medicine cabinet

What’s in your medicine cabinet? Believe it or not, some medicines and skin care products can actually increase your skin’s risk of UV damage. These medications include certain antibiotics and prescription medicines designed to treat high blood pressure, heart failure, acne, or allergies, among other conditions. Even some non-prescription skin care products containing alpha-hydroxy acids can make your skin more susceptible to sun damage. Just make sure you follow up with your physician and get medical advice on how to optimize your medication regimen for optimal health. 

Eat your way to youthful skin

Remember the old adage “You are what you eat”? Looks like it still holds water and consuming a balanced diet rich in nutrients, vitamins, antioxidants and essential minerals does play a crucial role when it comes to our skin. In other words, it’s essential that we include green vegetables, berries, melons, avocados, walnuts, and oily fish in our diet. These foods have a huge impact on our health and the health of our skin and can help maintain skin integrity as we age. Of course, when it comes to dieting, we suggest you consult with an experienced nutritionist to tailor a specific diet plan that nourishes your skin.

Take care of your skin as you age

Taking good care of your skin in your golden years is not as difficult as it appears to be. Rest assured that it’s all about incorporating simple habits into your daily life. From staying hydrated and embracing a nutrient-rich diet to maintaining a gentle skincare routine, the tips above can help you achieve better, healthier, and more vibrant skin and celebrate your timeless radiance. After all, age is just a number. With a little care, your skin can improve dramatically and transform the way you feel about yourself. 

Learn more about The Osborn’s luxury Independent Living options in Westchester County. The Osborn is designed for exceptional living, every step of the way.

June is Men’s Health Awareness Month.  In recognition of this important annual initiative, it’s a good time to provide you with some helpful information and reminders related to men’s health. 

Things to Know about Men’s Health

According to an article featured in Everyday Health, when you look at the top 10 leading causes of death by gender, men lead in 9 out of the 10 categories. Understanding this should also make us realize that bringing awareness to men’s health concerns needs to continue to be a priority. It could save lives.

The key is not to let complacency and fear be excuses for not going to the doctor.  Forgoing annual check-ups can take a toll on our overall health.  By maintaining annual exams that include routine bloodwork, electrocardiograms (EKGs), and management of health issues, we can stay ahead of any potentially serious health issues like diabetes or cardiovascular disease.

Men’s Mental Health

Although mental health has become a growing concern for men and women in recent years, men continue to battle the pressures of society when it comes to acknowledging the issue and managing it.  According to WebMD, men with depression often aren’t diagnosed for several reasons, including:

• Failure to recognize depression. You may think that feeling sad or emotional is always the main symptom of depression. But for many men, that isn’t the primary symptom. It can be headaches or body pain.

• Downplaying signs and symptoms. You may not recognize how much your symptoms affect you, or you may not want to admit to yourself or to anyone else that you’re depressed. But ignoring, suppressing, or masking depression with unhealthy behaviors will only worsen the situation.
• Reluctance to discuss depression symptoms. You may not be open to talking about your feelings with family or friends, let alone with a doctor or therapist. Like many men, you may have learned to suppress your feelings.  
• Resisting mental health treatment. Even if you suspect you have depression, you may avoid diagnosis or refuse treatment. Many men avoid getting help because they are worried about the stigma.

Stay Active & Practice Good Nutritional Habits

Maintaining a balanced diet and staying active can help you lower your risk for things like cardiovascular disease, stroke, and diabetes. As mentioned above, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for men in the United States, so making heart-healthy choices like eating right and exercising can only help! Not only can they help keep your heart strong, they will improve your mental health as well. 

When it comes to a balanced and healthy diet, you should avoid processed foods as much as possible. Stick with natural foods like fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean cuts of meat (like skinless chicken breast, lean ground meat (like turkey), or even fish).

Being active doesn’t mean you have to go to the gym several times a week. You can bike, walk on your lunch hour, or play a game of pickleball with a friend. The key is to do a healthy mix of aerobic exercise and muscle-strengthening activities.  Remember, always take the stairs – the little changes you make add up, too!

Don’t Forget about Your Prostate

The second leading cancer diagnosis for men is prostate cancer, as reported by the American Cancer Society. If you have trouble urinating, experience pain when you urinate, or notice blood in your urine, it may be a sign of prostate or bladder problems.  Newer advances in blood tests can screen for prostate issues like cancer and, if necessary, can help guide treatment.

The key is to stay in control of your mental and physical health by being an active participant in your healthcare. Don’t be silent about issues and hope they just go away – they won’t. Speak up when something doesn’t seem right either physically or mentally. If you’re experiencing any memory concerns or mobility issues, it’s important to talk to a loved one and your doctor.

Take our Memory Care Assessment

Men’s Health Matters

Your health is important for a good quality of life. Don’t be caught up in old, outdated stereotypes that keep you from asking for and seeking help. Strong men do take care of themselves because by doing so, they help take care of those they love as well.

The oldest members of the baby boom generation (those born in 1946) are turning 80 this year. While this itself is a milestone, it also ties into a bigger shift – a new vision of what “80” looks like and a new age for older adults. 

The population of older adults is already large, and growing. 2024 Census data show upwards of 61 million people age 65+, or 18 percent of the U.S. population, up from 55.8 million in 2020. Growth projections estimate that by 2050, 82 million Americans will be age 65 and older, representing nearly one-quarter of the population – and giving enhanced meaning to the term “boomers.”

This increase in the population also is giving rise to another dynamic, as older adults seek living options to match their active lifestyles. Older adults today, in general, are healthier and more engaged than prior generations, studies show, and are more intentional about where – and, particularly, how – they want to live. This, coupled with the boomer population shift, will have profound impacts on housing, health care and the future of senior living.

The Evolution of ‘Senior Living’ 

The growing population of older adults is driving a surge in demand for senior living spaces. By 2030, the number of Americans age 80 and older is projected to hit 18.8 million, which will further accelerate the need for new and thoughtfully designed housing options.

At the same time, people’s expectations for “senior living” are evolving, defined by choice, autonomy, wellness and purpose. Simply put, there are more older adults and they are seeking better, more varied choices that support active, independent lifestyles.

Research shows older adults are increasingly prioritizing amenity-rich living spaces that offer convenience, safety and vibrant social engagement. This includes:

• A variety of housing options with modern designs and flexible spaces.
• Ample outdoor spaces and walkable campuses.
• Wellness centers, diverse dining venues, creative and intellectual programming and events, and technology integration.
• Social activities, intergenerational connection, volunteering and continued personal growth.

These lifestyle preferences are leading more people to senior living campuses such as Life Plan Communities (LPCs), which offer independent and assisted living with integrated services such as memory care and skilled nursing – providing a seamless continuum that adapts as residents’ needs evolve. 

As the boomer generation moves into their 80s, their preferences for lifestyles offered by LPCs will accelerate demand for this model nationwide, and here in the Northeast. 

Our Next Chapter

At The Osborn, listening to our residents about their needs and wants is paramount. This is their home.  And it has led us to reimagine our campus to ensure we remain a community of choice, known for exceptional care, amenities and a commitment to the well-being of our residents.

The senior living communities that will thrive are those that continually ask, “How do our residents want to live – now and in the future?”

Learn More About Our Reimagination