The Future Leaders Awards program is presented in collaboration with PointClickCare. This initiative acknowledges emerging industry professionals who are shaping the future of behavioral health, senior housing, skilled nursing, home health, and hospice care. Discover this year’s Future Leaders at https://futureleaders.agingmedia.com/.
Merintha Pinson, Senior Associate at Perkins Eastman, has been recognized as a 2024 Future Leader by Senior Housing News.
To be selected as a Future Leader, an individual must be nominated by their peers. The nominee should be a high-achieving employee under the age of 40, dedicated to transforming vision into action, and an advocate for seniors and the professionals who ensure their well-being.
Pinson recently spoke with Senior Housing News about her introduction to the industry and why senior living is not a one-size-fits-all field. She emphasizes the need for customized services to meet the upcoming generation of senior living residents.
What drew you to this industry?
My architectural career initially focused on designing residential spaces. However, I discovered the specialized field of senior living design during a college studio project. This sector offers the opportunity to create supportive environments prioritizing health and wellness within vibrant communities. Working with Perkins Eastman, I’ve been inspired by forward-thinking clients and their innovative approaches to resident well-being and community development.
What’s your biggest lesson learned since starting in this industry?
The importance of empathy and adaptability in senior living cannot be understated. Each individual’s needs are unique, requiring tailored environments and continual adjustment to deliver impactful care.
If you could change one thing for the future of senior living, what would it be?
I look forward to seeing providers reimagine care delivery by creating personalized environments that cater to residents’ individual needs, support longevity, and enhance daily experiences within a community setting. Innovation, flexibility, and agility will be key to meeting the demands of future consumers.
What do you foresee for the senior living industry by 2025?
By 2025, there will be an increased demand for diverse housing options offering personalized living spaces, customized services, and tailored community connections. As a significant aging population chooses to age in place, technology will play a pivotal role in enabling this transition. Advancements in health tracking, AI monitoring, virtual reality, and smart homes will enhance accessibility and wellness.
In a word, how would you describe the future of senior living?
Innovative.
What quality is essential for all Future Leaders?
Resilience. Future leaders in senior living must adapt to industry challenges, confront barriers, and drive meaningful change.
