This past October, The Smarter Service team headed to Anaheim for the ICAA Conference & Expo, joining leaders who are shaping the future of active aging and wellness. Over three busy days, our COO Vida Roozen, Tech Guru Abbie Richie, Director of Operations Alyssa Farr, and Tech Concierge Kristen Ramirez connected with innovators, partners, and senior living providers who share our commitment to building digital confidence and connection for older adults.
Between conversations at Booth #513, Abbie took to the conference floor with one question:
“Why do you choose to come to ICAA?”
The responses offered a meaningful snapshot of why this event continues to be such an anchor for the wellness and senior living field.
Abbie spoke with leaders from Presbyterian Villages of Michigan, Episcopal Retirement Services, Arrow Senior Living, Clearwater Living, Covenant Living, Westminster Communities of Florida, Acts Retirement-Life Communities, Touchmark, CC Young Senior Living, and others. Across all these organizations, common themes emerged.
What we heard from attendees:
A place for real learning
Attendees described ICAA as a space where they can dive into research, explore new tools, and bring fresh ideas home. They appreciate learning new ways to keep staff and residents engaged, expand wellness programs, and strengthen the connection between healthspan and lifespan.
Human-first inspiration
Many told us ICAA stands out because it keeps wellness and whole-person living at the center. The conference focuses on purpose, wellbeing, and how to support older adults in living fuller, healthier lives.
Practical takeaways for everyday impact
Whether it’s new vendors, new frameworks, or new approaches to familiar challenges, leaders said they leave with real, applicable ideas. They value uncovering innovative ways to enhance engagement and well-being across their communities.
Connection that fuels progress
Networking came up again and again. Attendees value the chance to meet peers, compare notes, and learn what others are doing to move the industry forward. For many, this sense of community is one of the biggest reasons they return each year.
A pulse on what’s next in active aging
From emerging research to trends shaping the future of wellness, attendees said ICAA helps them stay grounded in what matters most for the future of aging.
Why this resonates with our mission
At The Smarter Service, we believe that confidence, connection, and lifelong learning are essential to aging well. Hearing leaders express how much they value innovation and engagement reinforces the importance of the work we do supporting older adults with technology every day.
Want to hear directly from the leaders shaping active aging?
Watch Abbie’s ICAA interview series here.
