Southeast Emerges as Prime Destination for Seniors

The United States is in the middle of a demographic shift that has been termed the "aging of America."

Each day, about 10,000 baby boomers turn age 65 - a trend that will continue for the next decade. By 2030, all baby boomers will be at least 65 years old, making up a significant portion of the population.

This unprecedented growth in the senior population is creating a nationwide demand for quality senior living options.

Historically, retirees have flocked to states like Florida and areas in the Northeast. However, recent trends indicate a shift as more seniors seek warmer climates with less risk of hurricanes and states with lower costs of living.

The Southeast, in particular, is emerging as a prime destination for retirees, offering both affordability and an attractive lifestyle. The region is well-positioned to benefit from this historic trend, providing ample opportunities for communities designed to meet the unique needs of an aging population.

Tanner Health has responded to both national and local needs with its development of The Birches.

Built next to the Tanner at Mirror Lake medical office building in Villa Rica, Georgia, The Birches at Villa Rica opened in 2021, offering 61 apartments with specialized assisted living and memory care. The property offers easy access to primary care and urgent care services.

Unlike most healthcare systems that focus solely on expanding their patient base, Tanner emphasizes holistic care.

"A large reason we, as a smaller, independent, community healthcare organization have been able to thrive when so many others across the Southeast have closed is because we genuinely listen to our community," said Loy Howard, president and CEO of Tanner Health. "We gain their support because we make sure they're heard."

For decades, Tanner has proactively developed services and programs tailored to the residents of west Georgia and east Alabama. Responding to chronic diseases like diabetes and rising cardiovascular and cancer rates, Tanner launched initiatives such as Get Healthy, Live Well, interventional cardiology and open-heart surgery sites, neurosurgery and stroke centers, accredited chest pain centers and the recently expanded Roy Richards, Sr. Cancer Center.

Recognizing a critical need from the triennial Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA), Tanner identified the demand for more senior living options, including assisted living and memory care facilities. This initiative led to the creation of The Birches.

"A lot of us have had to support an aging loved one," said Josh Chapman, president of Carrollton-based Linco Development, which partnered with Tanner on expanding senior living options locally. "One of the challenges in a lot of these communities is access to care. The residents have limited mobility."

And now, Tanner's second senior living venture - and an even more ambitious project - The Birches on Maple, is almost complete.

"It's more than just a project - it's a promise to our seniors and a testament to listening to our community's needs," said Howard. "You don't find senior living communities that are incorporated into healthcare systems. Medical care, the pursuit of better health and enhancing quality of life are at the core of these communities' missions - ensuring our seniors thrive as they age."

The Birches on Maple, located in Carrollton, sits adjacent to the Maple Street Commons shopping center, just beyond the University of West Georgia and will feature:

• 83 freestanding homes
• 29 memory care apartments
• 44 assisted living apartments
• 55 independent living apartments
• 18 independent living cottages

Residents will also have access to a clubhouse offering fitness and wellness classes, healthy gourmet cuisine, fitness spaces, and indoor and outdoor pools. This community ensures that medical care is integrated into the senior living environment with an on-site medical practice, Tanner Primary Care at The Birches, removing barriers to healthy aging and improving the quality of life for seniors.

By placing senior living facilities adjacent to their healthcare offices, Tanner ensures residents have easy access to medical services. This innovative approach ensures that illnesses are detected and treated promptly, preventing complications and promoting longevity.

"This community isn't just about providing a place to live - it's about creating a lifestyle where growing older means growing stronger," said Howard. "Here, health care isn't just a service but a way of life. Tanner Health is redefining what senior living can be, ensuring that aging is met with dignity, comfort and top-tier medical care.

"We're not just building senior living communities - we're building a future where our seniors are cared for with the same dedication and compassion we'd want for our own families," added Howard. "Because at the end of the day, that's what truly matters."

Discover how The Birches on Maple can enhance you or your loved one's quality of life. Reach out to the team today at 770-838-5998 to schedule a tour and see firsthand how the community integrates exceptional care with a vibrant lifestyle.

This article is part of a series highlighting Tanner Health's innovative approach to senior living with The Birches on Maple.

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