What JKV’s Chief Operating Officer, Doug Folsom Learned at the 2025 LeadingAge Southeast Conference
The 62nd Annual LeadingAge Southeast Convention & Exposition was a premier event for senior living professionals, offering opportunities to learn, network, and explore the latest innovations shaping the industry.
Held in Orlando, Florida, the conference left JKV Chief Operating Officer Doug Folsom energized and inspired.
“This year’s conference was amazing,” Folsom said. “The sessions I attended—covering everything from industry trends, dining innovations, and strategic planning, to the rapid growth of artificial intelligence in healthcare, legal considerations, and preparing future leaders—impressed me beyond measure.”
Fresh Ideas and Future Goals
Folsom said the conversations he had with other industry leaders sparked new ideas for enhancing resident life at JKV.
“Traditionally, continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) have been among the last to adopt new AI and technology tools,” Folsom said. JKV’s leadership team aims to change that by exploring the purchase of smartwatches for all residents — devices that could help prevent falls, monitor blood pressure, and automatically alert healthcare staff to potential concerns.
“We want to prevent potential problems rather than passively wait for something to happen,” Folsom explained.
The Role of Education—At All Levels
Another key takeaway for Folsom was the importance of education—not only for leadership and staff but also for JKV’s 11-member Board of Directors.
“The Board needs to understand forward-thinking for the long-term, not just day-to-day living at JKV,” he said. “We need a broader scope of what the future is bringing to our industry.”
A Commitment to Stewardship
The conference left Folsom so motivated that he is now seeking additional educational opportunities in the industry, both to attend and potentially present at. Drawing on his experience as JKV’s former CFO, he remains acutely aware of the financial responsibilities facing the senior living industry.
“As always, I believe in being a good steward of our residents’ finances,” Folsom said.
At John Knox Village, the insights gained from conferences like LeadingAge Southeast fuel our ongoing commitment to excellence. By embracing innovation, investing in education at every level, and staying ahead of industry trends, we remain focused on enhancing the quality of life for our residents today and for generations to come. Whether through exploring new technologies like AI and smart health devices, reimagining wellness programs, or continually refining our operations, JKV is dedicated to leading with vision, compassion, and innovation—ensuring that our community and its residents continue to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
More Than a Move — A Lifestyle Upgrade
For more than 58 years, John Knox Village of Pompano Beach, Florida, has set the gold standard for all-inclusive, resort-style living that empowers older adults to live life to the fullest—at every stage of retirement. The community emphasizes whole-person wellness with state-of-the-art fitness facilities, world-class programming, delicious dining, and much more. Residents enjoy peace of mind with unlimited access to on-campus healthcare professionals, 24/7 care, and comprehensive long-term care benefits. There are no time or financial limits on healthcare services—making JKV a smart, secure choice for the future.
Want to Learn More?
We invite you to experience the vibrant community, world-class amenities, remarkable residents, and exceptional team members who all make John Knox Village extraordinary. Contact us today to learn more and schedule a visit.
About LeadingAge Southeast
Founded in 1963 as a not-for-profit corporation, LeadingAge Southeast serves members in Florida, Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi. Its mission is simple: To expand possibilities for aging through advocacy, education, and service. Based in Tallahassee, Florida, the association represents more than 250 communities, over 500 facilities, and 140+ business associates, serving hundreds of thousands of seniors across the region. Members benefit from up-to-date regulatory guidance, educational opportunities, legislative advocacy, group purchasing, and peer networking.
