Reinventing Life Enrichment in Senior Living

About this episode

This episode explores the evolution of life enrichment in senior living with Dr. Ashlea Smalley, focusing on purpose-driven experiences and the role of technology.

What does life enrichment in senior living actually look like today—and where is it headed next? In this episode of Foresight Radio , we sit down with Dr. Ashlea Smalley , a senior living leader and gerontology expert with over 20 years of experience in the field. Together, we explore how senior living communities are evolving beyond outdated stereotypes of bingo and busywork toward purpose-driven experiences, deeper human connection, and personalized resident engagement . Dr. Smalley shares how life enrichment programs are shifting from simply "keeping residents busy" to creating meaningful experiences rooted in purpose, social connection, and individual identity. She also discusses how technology and AI tools are helping communities better understand residents and personalize their experiences. We also explore: Why senior living should feel like home—not just "homelike" How purposeful living and social connection impact resident well-being The role of AI and technology in enhancing resident engagement Why the future of senior living may look more like a college campus How communities can break stereotypes and attract the next generation of caregivers and leaders One powerful…

People in this episode

Guest: Dr. Ashlea Smalley

Topics covered

• life enrichment
• senior living
• purpose-driven experiences
• technology in senior care
• resident engagement
• social connection

Keywords

• senior living
• life enrichment
• gerontology
• AI tools
• personalized engagement
• community connection
• resident well-being

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Foresight Radio, Senior Living Foresight Radio

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