St. John’s Addresses Growing Demand for Senior Living
Two members of the St. John’s Leadership Team are featured in the April 10 issue of Rochester Business Journal, where they discuss how demographic shifts are increasing the need for senior living communities in the Rochester area and beyond.
The article highlights how the aging population is shaping the future of senior living, with more individuals seeking communities that offer a balance of care, independence, and lifestyle. As expectations evolve, providers are adapting to meet a wider range of needs across different stages of aging.
“Older adults are not looking to go into an independent living and be closed off from the world that they came from,” says Jennifer Lesinski, executive director of St. John’s Foundation and executive vice president of marketing. Today’s senior living communities are focused not only on care but also on creating environments that support connection, engagement, and overall quality of life. This includes offering diverse living options, enhancing services, and fostering a sense of community among residents and staff.
At St. John’s, that approach is reflected in a commitment to meeting residents where they are while continuing to evolve with changing expectations. St. John’s provides a range of living options and services designed to support residents at every stage, with a focus on personalized care and meaningful experiences. “We have live entertainment in here six times a week,” says Tony Zaccaglino, St. John’s Vice President of Senior Housing. “Transportation used to be just to doctors. Now we’re doing transportation to the RPO, Geva, movies, the mall, group outings to restaurants, etc.”
Zaccaglino and Lesinski also emphasized the importance of planning ahead, as more individuals and families are beginning to explore senior living options earlier in the decision-making process. This proactive approach allows for greater choice and helps ensure the right fit for future needs. Through this forward-looking perspective, St. John’s continues to respond to rising demand while maintaining a focus on community, connection, and individualized support.