Still Hopes CEO Starts the Conversation, and Points the Way Forward, on Senior Living

July 24, 2026

Roughly 12,000 Americans turn 65 every day, and by 2030 every Baby Boomer will be 65 or older. In a national Newsweek essay, Donald Lilly, President and CEO of Still Hopes Episcopal Retirement Community, explains why senior living has to evolve now — not later — to meet the coming wave of demand.

Hot Points:

  • "It's not just housing anymore." Lilly says today's older adults want wellness, experience, and meaningful connection — and communities that don't adapt risk becoming obsolete.
  • A new definition of success. Still Hopes is investing in programming that builds physical, cognitive, nutritional, and social wellness before residents ever need higher levels of care — helping people stay independent longer.
  • Thinking beyond the campus. As a nonprofit, Still Hopes is pursuing new partnerships and service models to reach older adults who may never move onto a physical campus but still deserve support and connection.

"Senior living should never be the place where life gets smaller. It should be a place where people continue to live fully, stay connected, and thrive." — Donald Lilly, CEO