NIC Fall 2025 In Review

Fresh from NIC Fall 2025, Senior Housing Consultants COO, Nick Merlino, reports a market that is steadying and preparing for its next phase of growth.

In conversations with investors, operators, and policy experts, several themes emerged that point to how the industry is evolving.

A central takeaway was the return of capital with discipline. Lenders and equity partners are cautiously re-engaging, focusing on communities with strong demand fundamentals and transparent cost structures. Deals are being made, but with sharper underwriting and heightened expectations for operational excellence.

Merlino also highlights continued occupancy momentum. Assisted living, memory care, and active adult communities are experiencing strong move-in rates and rents that outpace inflation where new supply is balanced. Families are emphasizing quick access, flexible pricing, and authentic quality of life when making decisions.

The workforce remains a decisive factor. Although wage growth has stabilized, recruiting and retaining skilled caregivers and clinical leaders is still a challenge. Organizations investing in career development and culture are seeing the best results in both margins and resident satisfaction.

Another significant trend is the increasing integration of senior living with health care. From value-based care pilots to chronic-care management partnerships, senior living communities are becoming key players in reducing overall health-care costs and improving outcomes.

Finally, technology has become core infrastructure. Predictive analytics, AI-driven scheduling, and resident engagement platforms are no longer optional; they are essential tools for scaling quality care and streamlining operations.

According to Merlino, these insights point to a clear conclusion: the sector’s future belongs to operators and investors who combine disciplined execution with mission-driven service and thoughtful innovation.

If you would like to get in contact with Nick, feel free to email him at nmerlino@SeniorHousingConsultants.com or call him at 319-331-2267.