According to a recent study, 86% of pet owners surveyed said their pets mostly have a positive impact on their mental health. The benefits of pet ownership have long been known. Researchers say that pet owners get a jolt of oxytocin from interacting with dogs, and some studies show that pet parents have healthier hearts, are less depressed, and get more exercise. So if you think pet owners will leave their furry buddies behind when they enter senior living, think again, which presents some exciting opportunities for senior living communities.

Increasingly, older adults don’t want to engage just with their peers. They want friends and acquaintances of all ages. At the same time, younger people appreciate opportunities for intergenerational living that offer affordable housing and diverse interactions. Many older adults, particularly younger Boomers and Gen Xers, seek to interact with people from other income levels, interests, and age groups. As a result, we’re seeing more communities that mix high-end with middle-market units and amenities, such as restaurants and fitness centers, open to area college students and the broader community. At Integrating Intergenerational Principles into Your Projects, a program at Boston LeadingAge, a panel featuring Pi Architect’s Greg Hunteman discussed how intergenerational connections can enhance both the design and operation of senior living environments.

Practicing caution in uncertain times is a popular strategy. But, in fact, uncertainty presents opportunities for innovation, creativity, and – yes – risk-taking. It’s a time when seriously pondering the ‘what ifs’ can lead to survival, growth, and strong leadership. Moving past caution doesn’t mean recklessness. It means identifying real threats and sorting those from those that are imagined or possible but unlikely.

In a recent article, Dr. Joe Coughlin asked, “Who will be the Target or Kohl’s of senior housing? While this industry isn’t about fast food or fast fashion like retail or restaurants, it is about anticipating trends, needs, and consumer demands.

One thing is clear. Boomers and Gen Xers want things their way.