Optimizing the Resident Experience with AI: Key Takeaways from the 2025 MMN Annual Conference

The conversation at this year’s Methodist Ministries Network Annual Conference in Memphis was clear: the future of senior living is being reshaped by artificial intelligence (AI) and smart technology. Our panel, composed of forward-thinking leaders from Go Icon, United Methodist Communities, Simpson Senior Services, and Asbury Communities, tackled the critical question: How can AI be used to truly optimize the resident experience?

This wasn’t a theoretical discussion. It was a conversation grounded in real-world applications, from predictive fall-prevention algorithms to resident-facing AI avatars that offer daily updates and personal reminders. But most importantly, it was about people. Because even the most cutting-edge technology means little if it doesn’t lead to healthier, happier, and more connected lives.

From Legacy Systems to Living Labs

Carol McKinley, President and CEO of Simpson, shared how a community with limited tech infrastructure began its digital journey. Guided by resident focus groups, they prioritized health-supportive technologies—think real-time monitoring of sleep patterns, heart rate, and movement. This data informed staff interventions, reduced fall risks, and improved psychotropic medication management.

At United Methodist Communities, Mark Lenhard emphasized shifting the focus away from “senior living” and toward individualized experiences. “Abundant living” means offering virtual travel to lifelong adventurers now facing mobility challenges or integrating geofencing for safety in memory care.

Nick Patel of Asbury Communities spoke about the power of testing innovation through a living lab model. In partnership with AARP, residents explored AI-powered startups firsthand including Joy, an AI avatar loaded with campus-specific information. Residents could ask Joy what’s for dinner or when their favorite class starts. What began as a generic AI assistant quickly became a personalized concierge.

Balancing Innovation with Responsibility

For all the excitement, our panel didn’t shy away from the tough topics, especially cybersecurity. AI-powered scams, impersonation fraud, and phishing are very real threats. Carol McKinley reminded us that a single data breach can lead to years of remediation. That’s why Simpson now partners with a Managed Service Provider (MSP) and conducts rigorous policy reviews, reducing both cyber risk and insurance premiums.

AI also raises ethical questions. Just because we can collect certain data doesn’t always mean we should. Responsible data stewardship is critical. Who sees the information? What action is taken? And are residents and families included in these conversations?

The consensus: Innovation without clear ethical frameworks and cybersecurity protocols is a recipe for disaster.

Best Practices for Implementation

Several actionable strategies emerged from the discussion:

• Start Small: The hardest step is the first one. Focus on one resident-facing or staff-supportive initiative that solves a real pain point.
  
• Demystify AI: Host internal demo days. Let staff play with tools like ChatGPT. Curiosity leads to adoption.
  
• Find the Right Partners: Not every community has a CIO – and that’s okay. Partner with trusted vendors who understand the industry and offer scalable solutions.
  
• Choose Market-Backed Tech: Avoid one-off pilots with no sustainability. Vet your vendors. If they disappear, so will your data and support.
  
• Train Continuously: Learning isn’t one-and-done. Technology evolves fast. Teams need ongoing support to stay confident and compliant.
  
• Leverage the Resident Voice: Older adults are more tech-savvy than many assume. Invite them into focus groups and innovation councils.
  

Final Thoughts: Just Start

AI and technology in senior living can feel overwhelming. But the takeaway from this panel was empowering: you don’t need a $20,000 bot to begin your journey. You just need curiosity, courage, and collaboration.

Ask questions. Partner with others. Celebrate your early wins and then build on them. Because the future isn’t waiting. It’s already here.