October 21 - October 23, 2026
Chicago, IL
NIC Insights Session: From Standstill to Strategy: Reigniting Senior Housing Development
Date and Time:Friday, October 23, 2026 | 8:30 am - 9:30 am
Location:Main Stage
Senior Managing Director, Head of Seniors Housing & Healthcare Production
Lument
Senior housing inventory growth has fallen to historic lows, but early signs of movement are emerging. Those who understand what continues to constrain development, what conditions are beginning to shift, and where new starts are most likely to reappear will be best positioned to succeed.
With a prolonged slowdown in construction starts, a development cycle approaching 29 months, replacement costs near a tipping point, equity returns under pressure, and wages, materials, and interest rates still elevated, project feasibility remains a challenge—especially beyond higher-end communities. Yet a subset of developers is advancing projects by rethinking capital stacks, partnerships, and approaches to design and construction. In this session, attendees will gain a clear-eyed perspective on how development may re-accelerate, how project economics are evolving, and practical lessons from groups finding ways to move forward—while keeping an eye on more attainable senior housing options.