What does the future hold for senior housing? To find out, our team attended the Colorado Real Estate Journal’s Senior Housing & Care Conference and Expo in Denver last month.
Industry leaders shared insights on emerging trends, challenges and opportunities shaping senior living. As we compared those insights with what The Avenues Crofton Park offers for 55+ housing and services, one thing became clear: we’re ahead of the curve in meeting the needs and preferences of today’s older adults.
The annual event brought together builders, interior designers, operators, sales and marketing professionals, architects and bankers — all focused on what today’s retirees, especially baby boomers, want from senior housing. Panels explored community operations, design trends and development financing.
Opening keynote speaker Kate Watkins, state demographer with the Colorado Department of Local Affairs, shared compelling data. While Colorado’s overall population growth is slowing due to lower birth rates, higher mortality and migration shifts tied in part to housing costs, the fastest-growing segment of the population is adults ages 55 and older.
Here are 10 key trends shaping senior living in Colorado
- Independence first — with a safety net
Older adults don’t want “care” first. They want lifestyle, autonomy and peace of mind. Many prefer to age in place and delay higher levels of care as long as possible. Maintenance-free living — no yard work, repairs or snow removal — is a major motivator. At The Avenues, residents enjoy that freedom while a full-time maintenance director handles repairs in apartments and cottages and keeps the community running smoothly.
- Social connection matters
Avoiding isolation is important. Colorado retirees tend to be active and socially engaged. The Avenues team supports resident-driven clubs and activities that encourage organic connection — no forced fun, just meaningful opportunities to engage.
- Access to the outdoors is essential
In the Centennial State, outdoor access is a priority. That may not mean summiting Quandary Peak (though we have some residents who do!), but it does mean enjoying day trips to Rocky Mountain National Park, afternoons on Pearl Street or peaceful walks at the nearby Metzger Farm Open Space.
- Wellness goes beyond healthcare
Today’s seniors want opportunities to stay active and engaged. The Avenues offers a robust monthly activities calendar including painting, floral design, pool tournaments, seated volleyball, Zumba, dance lessons and Tai Chi.
- Location and convenience count
Seniors want everyday life to continue seamlessly — with easy access to shopping, healthcare, transportation and family. Located in Broomfield, recently named the No. 1 “Best Place to Live in the Western U.S.” by Travel + Leisure magazine, The Avenues is less than 30 minutes from Boulder, Arvada, Golden and Denver.
- Financial clarity is a priority
Older adults want predictable expenses and fewer surprises. The Avenues’ all-inclusive pricing model with no surprises covers nearly everything except phone and cable, eliminating surprise fees for utilities, parking or storage.
- Purpose and philanthropy matter
Many retirees want opportunities to give back. Throughout the year, The Avenues partners with a local elementary school for holiday food drives and school supply programs, giving residents meaningful ways to stay involved in the greater community.
- Hospitality makes a difference
Independent living operators are increasingly embracing a hospitality mindset. The Avenues has long prioritized concierge-style service that helps residents age in place. Our customer service-driven team strives to communicate, coordinate and connect residents with whatever services they need.
- On-site services support aging in place
Convenience matters. The Avenues offers on-site hearing clinics, salon services and medical pedicures, allowing residents to take care of important needs without leaving home.
- Privacy and personalization are essential
Colorado seniors value privacy, flexibility and control over their routines. With 14 unique floor plans — including stand-alone cottages and spacious one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments — residents can personalize their homes and daily schedules. Spacious kitchens allow them to cook, entertain and gather with friends and family.
For more information about The Avenues Crofton Park, please call 720-328-9548 or visit us online at livetheavenues.com.