Kaelyn Carroll – Erickson Senior Living

Kaelyn Carroll is the vice president and associate general counsel at Erickson Senior Living, a role that orchestrates care and well-being across more than 20 Continuing Care Retirement Communities in the United States. Committed to Erickson’s mission of enhancing the lives of seniors, Carroll embodies compassionate leadership and tireless advocacy.

“It is important that the work I do helps to align Erickson’s operations to foster a vibrant, fulfilling lifestyle for its residents,” Carroll tells Vanguard during an interview in April.

Kaelyn Carroll | Vice President, Associate General Counsel | Erickson Senior Living

In her role, Carroll navigates diverse challenges and opportunities, using her experience to navigate the intricate legal terrain while driving initiatives that promote holistic wellness and quality of life for Erickson residents. Despite not working directly with residents or in the communities, her role extends beyond the confines of legal counsel; it encompasses a nurturing environment where residents can flourish, supported by a robust framework of care, services, and amenities. With unwavering dedication, Carroll strives to uphold Erickson’s commitment to excellence, driving a vision where seniors can thrive in an environment that celebrates their dignity, autonomy, and individuality.

At the heart of Carroll’s endeavors lies a belief in the transformative power of community and connectivity. She recognizes that fostering meaningful connections among residents, staff, and stakeholders is necessary to create a vibrant life within Erickson’s communities. By nurturing a culture of inclusivity, compassion, and mutual support, Carroll helps to cultivate an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to lead fulfilling lives.

“Every step we take today paves the path for a brighter, more fulfilling future for our seniors. With dedication and compassion, we strive to enrich every moment in their lives and meet each challenge with resilience and support,” Carroll says.

Enriching lives through innovation 

Carroll seeks to provide meaningful contributions to her business partners. One initiative she was proud to provide legal support for was implementing the Rock Steady Boxing program. Designed specifically for those diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, this innovative program offers a holistic approach to health and wellness. By incorporating boxing moves and exercises tailored to the needs of individuals with Parkinson’s, residents can improve their motor skills, balance, and overall quality of life. This initiative underscores Erickson’s commitment to providing personalized care and addressing the unique needs of its residents.

In addition to the Rock Steady Boxing program, Carroll has played a vital role in helping to launch other programs. Carroll copyrighted Erickson’s robust Signature Dining program, which serves made-to-order meals for residents a variety of on-site restaurants. With her focus on healthcare, she has supported various healthcare programs, such as catered living, an initiative designed to prolong independence.

“By fostering a supportive environment for residents to engage with technology, Erickson seeks to remain at the forefront of innovation in senior living while empowering residents to stay connected and engaged in an increasingly digital world,” Carroll explains.

Erickson’s innovations don’t just impact its residents on the front end. Carroll is actively involved in cybersecurity efforts at Erickson, where she collaborates with internal teams to safeguard residents’ privacy and security. With the rise of cyber threats targeting senior living communities, Carroll’s legal and compliance support is instrumental in developing robust cybersecurity protocols and training initiatives.

“By staying ahead of emerging threats and educating employees and residents, we can create a safe and secure environment for all members of the Erickson community,” she says.

Looking ahead, Erickson’s growth plans present exciting opportunities for Carroll to continue making a meaningful impact. With new communities slated to open, Carroll’s leadership will help maintain Erickson’s commitment to excellence in senior living.

Building a strong team 

Carroll and the legal department play a pivotal role in enterprise operations. With an ever-changing regulatory environment and varying state laws, she is among a legal team of seven attorneys addressing multifaceted challenges, particularly in the healthcare, well-being and technology sectors.

“Staying ahead of evolving regulations is crucial for Erickson,” she notes.

Juggling the intricacies of state laws and regulations poses a daily challenge for Carroll. Being in a highly regulated field necessitates constant vigilance and adaptability. However, the significance of these regulations, aimed at safeguarding seniors, is a constant reminder of the impact of their work. Negotiating contracts and addressing legal intricacies enhance residents’ lives, making the work meaningful.

From law school to leadership 

Carroll’s journey into law and healthcare began with a spark of interest ignited during her time at the University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law. There, she discovered her passion for health law, fueled by her involvement in a service trip to the Mississippi Delta region, where she focused on improving access to healthcare.

“As an editor of the Health Law Journal, I delved deeper into the complexities of health law, laying the groundwork for my future career,” Carroll recalls.

After completing her JD and receiving a certificate in Health Law, Carroll spent over six years in private practice and became certified in Healthcare Compliance. However, her desire to make a tangible difference in the healthcare industry led her to Erickson Senior Living, where she joined as legal counsel in August 2017.

By July 2021, she had advanced to senior counsel for operations and health services, showcasing her ability to navigate complex legal landscapes effectively.

She was appointed vice president, associate general counsel at Erickson in September 2022.

“Working at Erickson allows me to focus my efforts on what I’m passionate about, but the bigger accomplishment is knowing that what I do is truly helping residents live better lives,” Carroll says.

View this feature in the Vanguard Summer I 2024 Edition here.