Upgrading a building today means preparing for a digital future. From smart thermostats to emergency response systems, technology has become as essential to senior living communities as plumbing and electricity. Unfortunately, technology is often treated as an add-on instead of a core part of the design. The result? Facilities that look modern on the surface but fall short when it comes to function, flexibility, and future-readiness.
The systems that support senior living—HVAC, lighting, security, communication, and resident monitoring—are rapidly evolving. Many now rely on integrated software platforms, wireless networks, and real-time data sharing. These tools improve everything from energy efficiency to fall prevention, but only if the right infrastructure is in place during construction. That means early planning for low-voltage wiring, server capacity, power access, and wireless coverage is foundational.
One of the biggest mistakes in construction planning is treating technology as a finish-line decision. By the time walls are closed and ceilings are painted, it’s too late to install the backbone systems that enable smart operations. That’s why decisions about data networks, cabling pathways, and control systems need to happen at the same time as structural and mechanical planning—not after the fact.
Real World Examples
Here are five real-world examples where integrating technology during construction or renovation made a significant impact—and demonstrate challenges where technology planning was overlooked:
- Direct Supply’s Award-Winning Access & Wander System
At the Abbey Delray senior community, Direct Supply and Lifespace implemented an integrated low-voltage system connecting access control, video surveillance, intercoms, and wander-management tools. These systems relay alerts directly to staff via handheld wireless devices—delivering enhanced safety and operational efficiency because the cabling and integration were planned from the start (Allbridge, Direct Supply Aptura, Abbey Delray).
- Meadow Ridge CCRC’s Solar & Connectivity Upgrade
A life plan community in Connecticut completed a large-scale solar power installation and concurrently upgraded digital infrastructure. These improvements built technological resilience into both energy and IT systems—demonstrating the value of combining facility and tech planning during renovation (Senior Living News, Meadow Ridge).
- Kendal at Oberlin and AI Fall-Prevention Tech
Kendal at Oberlin (OH) installed “Paul,” an AI- and radar-based device in each assisted living unit that reduced falls by 70%. The success hinged on timely inclusion of power, data networking, and placement planning during facility upgrades—showing how early tech infrastructure avoids retrofit complexity (Senior Living News, Kendal at Oberlin).
- Alliance with BHI Senior Living for Tech Concierge Service
BHI Senior Living rolled out a tech concierge support service across all their communities, servicing over 2,200 residents. Achieving full Wi-Fi coverage and resident support required thoughtful construction planning for connectivity infrastructure during renovations and builds (Senior Living News, BHI Senior Living).
- Allbridge: Future-Proofing with Converged Networks
Consultative briefs from Allbridge highlight how properties upgraded with enterprise-grade converged networks, robust bandwidth, and secure IoT platforms during construction are better positioned to support smart systems like building automation, remote monitoring, and telehealth—demonstrating the importance of planning for technology infrastructure early in the process (Allbridge).
These real-world examples illustrate that technology is not a luxury, but a foundational element of modern healthcare design. When tech systems are considered early and holistically in construction planning, senior living facilities become smarter, safer, and more sustainable—for today—and tomorrow.
Put A Plan In Place For Efficiency And Success
Beyond the back-end systems, resident-facing technologies also require smart construction planning. Wander prevention systems, nurse call alerts, emergency response buttons, and even telehealth stations all rely on reliable power and connectivity. If those needs aren’t accounted for early, retrofitting later can be costly and disruptive—not to mention a potential safety risk for residents.
Energy management is another area where technology integration during construction pays off. Smart HVAC systems, motion-sensing lighting, and real-time utility monitoring tools can significantly lower operating costs—but only if installed with the right sensors and system controls from the start. These systems often require coordination across trades and disciplines, which makes upfront planning essential to avoid costly rework.
Technology also plays a growing role in life-safety and code compliance. Emergency lighting, backup power, and access control systems are becoming more
sophisticated, and in many jurisdictions, more tightly regulated. Poor planning here can mean failing inspections, delaying occupancy, or putting residents at risk.
Look Ahead
It is important to build with adaptability in mind. The pace of change in senior living technology is accelerating, and buildings must be ready to evolve. That means leaving room for future upgrades—like extra conduit space, modular data panels, or flexible ceiling grids—so new systems can be installed without major disruption.
Ultimately, treating technology as a core utility just like plumbing or electrical ensures a facility isn’t just ready for day one, but for the next decade. When construction is planned with tech in mind, the result is a safer, smarter, more sustainable environment for residents and staff alike. And in a time when expectations for care and performance are only rising, that’s not just a luxury.
With over 35 years of experience in construction consulting and construction monitoring, zumBrunnen has seen firsthand how thoughtful planning around technology can make or break a project’s long-term success. Our team has worked across hundreds of senior living developments, helping owners and operators navigate the complexities of building smarter, safer, and more adaptable facilities.
