By Michael E. McRae
President & CEO, St. Ann’s Community
January 28th, 2026
Why senior living is a social priority in 2026, and how St. Ann’s Community pairs smart innovation with real human connection
“Moving here gave me back time and energy. I spend mornings in the pool, afternoons with the book club, and evenings with friends. It feels like life opened up again.” — Mary, a Chapel Oaks resident.
The world has never been older or wiser. And this year, something remarkable is happening: more people than ever before will be over 65. This shift isn’t just a data point. It’s a sign of how quickly our society is changing. People are living longer, staying healthier, and redefining what it means to grow older.
You can feel that energy every day at St. Ann’s. Our residents don’t just live in our community; they shape it. They start book clubs, mentor young people, host neighborhood events, and share a lifetime of insight with everyone around them. Technology is helping us support older adults in new and exciting ways, yet compassion remains the foundation of everything we do. Smart monitoring tools and helpful apps are wonderful, but nothing replaces a warm conversation or a caring hand.
With so many people entering this stage of life, senior living has become more than a service. It’s a social priority. Communities like ours reduce loneliness, support wellness, create jobs, and show what connected living can look like. When we invest in senior living, we’re really investing in the future we all hope to experience. A future where people are valued for who they are and encouraged as they continue to grow.
Our work doesn’t stop at the front door. What we do every day helps shape the larger story of what dignity, purpose, and belonging look like later in life. By setting a high standard, we honor the generations before us and build a legacy that future generations can be proud of.
St. Ann’s Community has been living this mission for more than 150 years. We care for older adults every single day and believe to our core that we are Caring for the Most Important People on Earth. As the first month of 2026 wraps up, our mission feels more meaningful than ever.