In this conversation, Heather TerHark, Chief Strategy Officer at Viva Senior Living, discusses the evolving expectations of seniors in living communities.
The dialogue emphasizes the importance of technology, meaningful experiences, and the need for senior living communities to adapt to changing consumer demands.
Heather highlights how seniors are not just looking for a place to live but a vibrant community where they can thrive, connect, and feel a sense of purpose.
The conversation also touches on the role of marketing in conveying these changes and the significance of creating a supportive environment for both residents and their families.
Takeaways
- Tech is now part of resident experience (apps, streaming, health tech, smart design)
- Innovation must meet residents where they are.
- Experience drives engagement.
- The goal is to create a place where people truly live their best lives.
- Peace of mind matters the most for residents and families alike.
- Consumer demand is changing, and senior living must adapt accordingly.
- Seniors want to continue to contribute to society and have a purpose.
- Creating meaningful experiences is essential for resident satisfaction.
- Marketing strategies must reflect the modern expectations of seniors.
- Community engagement is key to enhancing the quality of life for residents.
Chapters
00:00 - The Evolving Landscape of Senior Living
08:06 - Consumer Demand and Technology Integration
14:05 - Creating Meaningful Experiences
19:59 - Marketing Strategies for Modern Senior Living
Playback options
A PODCAST OF UNLOCK HEALTH
The Move In Senior Living Marketing
Designing for Today’s Consumer Demands (with Heather TerHark)
November 19, 2025 • Episode #46
A PODCAST OF UNLOCK HEALTH
The Move In Senior Living Marketing
Designing for Today’s Consumer Demands
with Heather TerHark
Nov. 19, 2025 • Episode #46
Clip 1 (46 sec.)
Today’s seniors don’t want to slow down—they want purpose. Heather Terhark shares how senior living marketers can help residents live out their bucket lists and find meaning every day.
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Clip 2 (44 sec.)
From Amazon deliveries to streaming services, modern seniors expect seamless digital access. Heather explains how senior living communities can evolve their tech to match consumer expectations.
Clip 3 (57 sec.)
What happens when residents become digital creators? Heather reveals how teaching seniors to use Zoom, Instagram, and even TikTok builds connection, joy, and belonging within the community.
“Gone are the days that you have a library with one computer that the seniors go to. They’re texting, streaming, ordering, connecting. We have to make sure our communities keep up—with high-speed Wi-Fi, smart design, and technology that meets residents where they already are.."
More clips from this episode are available here.
Heather TerHark
Chief Strategy Officer
Viva Senior Living
