The senior living industry is alive and well, judging by turnout at the annual convention of the Assisted Living Federation of America (ALFA), which got underway today (Wednesday) in San Diego.   The Goldman Mature Market Report has been here since Tuesday and conference organizers say attendance is robust … about 2000 people in all … including senior living executives, reps from the full range of companies that serve the industry (everything from furniture to financial services), and experts on the array of issues that matter … care topics, Medicare Part D, customer service, and much  more.   Some of the buzz we’ve heard — Alzheimer’s is a growing presence in assisted living communities … as many as 67% of assisted living residents may have some kind of memory disorder … everyone’s talking about what needs to be done to better serve those residents.  Another topic: Diverse cultures … it’s coincidence, of course, that the big immigration rallies in southern California and across the country took place the same week as this convention … however, it highlights the growing range of cultures and languages in America and in senior living, both from a resident and staff perspective.  Also big — technology and its role in senior living.  Exhibitors are here to show off the latest in security technology and senior living executives say smart use of technology to run their companies is the key to success in the future.  That’s a wrap-up of Day One … we’ll keep you posted from San Diego!