What's Happening?
At the 2025 LeadingAge Annual Meeting in Boston, senior care organizations emphasized the importance of cybersecurity and compliance. Michael Gray, Vice President of IT and Chief Compliance Officer, highlighted the need for updated knowledge on cyberattacks,
noting the increased familiarity with ransomware attacks compared to five or six years ago. Gray stressed the importance of multifactor authentication and the need for staff to be aware of risks to effectively defend against them. Despite preparedness, long recovery times from cyber events are inevitable, requiring teams to maintain operations when systems are offline. The conference underscored the necessity of having knowledgeable individuals in leadership roles to assess and implement necessary protections.
Why It's Important?
The focus on cybersecurity in senior care organizations is crucial due to the sensitive nature of the data they handle, including personal and medical information of vulnerable populations. As cyber threats become more sophisticated, these organizations must enhance their security measures to protect against data breaches that could compromise the privacy and safety of their clients. The emphasis on training and preparedness ensures that operations can continue during cyber incidents, minimizing disruptions to care services. This proactive approach is vital for maintaining trust and compliance with regulations, ultimately safeguarding the well-being of those relying on senior care services.
What's Next?
Senior care organizations are likely to continue investing in cybersecurity measures and training programs to enhance their defenses against cyber threats. The ongoing development of more phishing-resistant multifactor authentication methods will be crucial in protecting against social engineering attacks. Organizations may also explore partnerships with cybersecurity firms to ensure their systems are clean and secure before bringing them back online after an incident. As the industry evolves, there will be a continued focus on integrating cybersecurity strategies into overall business operations to ensure resilience and continuity of care.
