Senior Spotlight: What To Expect In Senior News 2026

Welcome 2026! We hope that this year continues the joys you have, lightens the challenges you face and makes living longer and living better a thing we all do, not just a thing we all say! As we are preparing to cover another year of Senior Spotlight topics, we conducted a little research on the issues that are most pressing for those nearing or already in their retirement years. Here are a few of the key themes that we plan to talk about in the year to come: 

#1:  The first Baby Boomers are turning 80 this year! Brookings reports that “As more baby boomers pass this milestone, the nation’s age 80-plus population group is projected to double, from 14.7 million in 2025 to 29.4 million in 2045.” 

#2:  Baby Boomers are expected to redefine retirement, with 56% expecting to work past the age of 70 according to Circana. 78% of Boomers cite “healthy aging” as the driving force for staying employed past the traditional retirement age of 65.

#3: Senior housing demand is continuing to rise “with the wind at its back” according to Multi-Housing News. Senior housing occupancy reached nearly 90% in the 2nd half of 2025, a trend that is expected to continue in 2026. Limited new supply is a growing industry concern. 

#4:  Key features of senior housing that strive for a higher quality of life for seniors include: the use of technology for social connection and wellness support, vibrant and personalized living spaces and smart home technology. The shift is defined as one aimed at not just “meeting needs” but truly thriving. 

#5:  Baby Boomers continue to serve as a substantial economic force. Money reports that “boomers have accumulated about $85 trillion — accounting for roughly 50% of all household wealth in the U.S.” Spending habits include a preference for experiences over things, making travel and hobbies top priorities.

BONUS TOPIC: Industry data projects that Baby Boomers may pass $124 trillion down to their heirs by 2048, potentially making millennials the wealthiest population in history! 

Stay tuned as we explore these topics and their impact on health, housing, wealth, quality of life, caregiving, Medicare, local and national legislation and more. While none of us may get any younger in 2026 😊, you can bet we will learn and get wiser together! 

Thanks for continuing to read our Senior Spotlight in 2026! 

Bobbi 

Bobbi Decker
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