Senior living operators are increasingly leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance their operations, despite the term being a commonly used buzzword. Bickford Senior Living President Andy Eby, along with Merrill Gardens President Tana Gall and New Perspective Senior Living Co-CEO Chris Hyatt, highlighted the role of AI in improving resident care and streamlining operations during the recent Argentum conference in Phoenix, Arizona.
Eby emphasized the ability of AI to transform traditional approaches by integrating data into operations, leading to improved transparency with consumers. He explained how AI enables companies to scale their operations and leadership by leveraging data and information, shifting from a reactive to a proactive approach in customer care.
AI integration has allowed senior living operators to enhance care delivery, identify potential leaders, and analyze data to drive decision-making. By moving from anecdotal information to evidence-based patterns, operators can optimize resident care, improve communication with families, and ultimately enhance the overall care experience.
While skepticism initially surrounded the integration of AI into senior living operations, organizations like New Perspective and Merrill Gardens have witnessed significant benefits, particularly in fall prevention. Through technologies like SafelyYou, which uses AI to monitor resident rooms for potential falls, operators have seen a drastic reduction in fall incidents, faster response times, and improved quality of care.
Looking ahead, senior living operators envision a future where AI and data analytics play a crucial role in providing personalized care, addressing staff burnout, and shaping care plans based on individual needs. By embracing AI and forging strong tech partnerships, operators aim to revolutionize the industry, attract new talent, and enhance the overall care experience for residents.
As the industry continues to evolve, the integration of AI is seen as a catalyst for innovation and efficiency, driving a fundamental shift in how senior living operators approach care and operations. By embracing AI technologies and harnessing the power of data, operators like Bickford, Merrill Gardens, and New Perspective are paving the way for a more intelligent and sustainable future in senior living.