LW Consulting, Inc. (LWCI) was thrilled to participate in LeadingAge Rhode Island’s 2025 Annual Conference on April 3. It was a fantastic opportunity to connect, learn, and share knowledge with industry professionals who are equally passionate about enhancing care in senior living communities.
The conference offered a valuable space for networking with like-minded individuals and organizations. It provided not only insights into the latest trends and regulations in the senior care industry, but also a chance to engage in meaningful conversations with peers and thought leaders. One key takeaway was the importance of being adaptable in an ever-changing field—something that came up repeatedly throughout the event.
As the event highlighted the critical role of adaptability, it also underscored the importance of ongoing education and innovation in the senior living space. With this in mind, let’s explore some of the pivotal trends and solutions that are driving change in the industry.
Regulatory Updates & Survey Insights
The session on Regulatory Updates and Tips to Achieve Optimal Survey Performance was particularly insightful, shedding light on the latest revisions to Appendix PP and the impact of these changes on care practices. The facilitator stressed the importance of evolving with the times rather than sticking to outdated “that’s the way we’ve always done it” practices. The discussion also highlighted the significance of understanding how surveys are conducted, and how facilities can better prepare for them. A notable point emphasized was the need to be proactive in understanding and managing a multigenerational workforce.
Strengthening Behavioral Health Management
The workshop on Strengthening Behavioral Health Management provided a deep dive into managing mental health crises within senior care settings. The importance of accurate behavioral health diagnoses and the effective management of escalated situations were central to the conversation. A major takeaway was the need for ongoing staff education to ensure successful outcomes when patients experience mental health crises. Additionally, the discussion included actionable strategies, such as developing care plans for both “good” and “bad” days and initiating a Behavioral Health Ambassador Program to champion mental health awareness and support.
Embracing AI in Senior Living
Another compelling workshop focused on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Senior Living. This session was an eye-opener, showcasing how AI is already being utilized in some senior living communities and the potential for future advancements. The question raised—“How do we live longer and healthier using AI?”—sparked intriguing discussions about the role of technology in senior care. A key takeaway was the importance for senior living facilities to have a clear vision for their technology culture, ensuring that AI adoption aligns with their mission to enhance care quality and operational efficiency.
The Power of Purpose
The keynote address, The Power of Purpose: How Small Actions Create Big Ripples, resonated deeply with attendees. The speaker introduced us to the idea that understanding our purpose, our “why,” is a fundamental step toward leading a healthier, longer life. We explored the concept that our intrinsic motivation shapes our actions and outcomes, and that cultivating a clear sense of purpose can lead to more meaningful contributions both personally and professionally. Attendees were encouraged to reflect on the type of “Being” they identify as—whether Teacher, Partner, Leader, Creator, Connector, Builder, Innovator, Learner, or Explorer—and how that identity informs our daily choices.
The Purpose Equation framework, presented during the session, guided participants through a thought-provoking discussion, reinforcing that discovering and embracing our purpose is an internal process. By understanding our “why,” we can create lasting ripples of positive change within our communities and beyond.
Using this Knowledge to Help Our Clients
The LeadingAge Rhode Island 2025 Annual Conference was a truly enriching experience for LWCI. We left with a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in senior living care, and an even stronger commitment to supporting organizations in their mission to provide high-quality, compassionate care. We look forward to implementing the insights and strategies gained from this event to continue helping our clients thrive in an ever-evolving landscape.
Thank you to LeadingAge Rhode Island for hosting such a fantastic conference, and to all the speakers and participants who made it such a success. We are already looking forward to next year!
LW Consulting, Inc. (LWCI) offers a comprehensive range of services that can assist your organization in maintaining compliance, identifying trends, providing education and training, or conducting documentation and coding audits. For more information, contact LWCI to connect with one of our experts!
