The American Seniors Housing Association just launched its www.whereyoulivematters.org website.
Last week, the American Seniors Housing Association launched its “Where You Live Matters” campaign (www.whereyoulivematters.org). The website offers an incredible menu of information to help guide seniors and their families to make the right decision for them with regards to senior living options. Independent living, assisted living, memory care, CCRCs? It’s all covered, plus a resource guide with 75 links to other helpful websites. To many of us, seniors housing options are second nature, because we live and breathe it. But for potential residents and their families, it is often a confusing maze that leaves many questions unanswered. Until now, that is. The beauty of it is that it does not push potential customers in one direction or another, does not push them to a particular company or price range. It is a guide to educate them and help them make the best decision based not only on their needs and particular budget, but also their social and health concerns. Think about the ratio of lead conversions when the customer has already had their questions answered. So visit whereyoulivematters.org, because it not only matters where you do live, but it matters how you, the provider, use this new resource on your own website.
This is very informative. However, I couldn’t disagree with you more about “… it does not push potential customers in one direction or another…” There is nothing I read on that site that encourages the senior to stay in their home, i.e., aging in place. Are you trying to scare the elderly into moving? That’s what I read. This is clearly a push to get seniors into communities all for the benefit of the ASHA and its wealthy investors and members. Not everyone has that kind of money. Not even close.
Thank you for your support and sharing this helpful resource for those navigating the senior living journey!
David Schless
President
American Seniors Housing Association
dschless@whereyoulivematters.org
Sandra,
The site I referenced in the video is to help the elderly and their families to understand what “alternatives” there are to remaining at home. Since the elderly have been at home for most of their lives, I would hope they know that is an option, but an option that can also be quite expensive when you add up all the costs of home ownership plus care. But not only is it not an option for everyone, to understand what else may be available, and to understand what questions to ask, can be very helpful for all concerned. And you are right, a large portion of the elderly can’t afford to move into what is being built, and this problem will only grow as the baby boomers age. Something will have to be done, but right now, in most states there are few incentives for developers and investors to build and invest in affordable seniors housing projects, where monthly rental rates are much lower than the upscale communities, but the costs of construction are nearly as high. The industry knows this is an issue, but we have not heard of many viable solutions. Most seniors housing professionals I have met are passionate about what they do, so it is understandable that they would want the elderly to learn more about what they offer because they believe it is a great alternative for many reasons, and not just to make money. My parents spent the last 12 years of their lives in a CCRC, and never for a moment regretted their decision, even though they were a little on the young side when they made the move. But thank you for your comments.
Steve Monroe
Steve, thank you for replying. Your agenda is clear for those with means. It’s ok. We all get to have an agenda. Aging in place is a viable option with support from family, friends and the community. The Village movement is on the rise and gratefully it will continue to grow across the country as many seniors, as you mention, will need affordable housing options. Thank you again.
Sandra, I would not call it “my agenda,” especially since I financially support our local group called “Staying Put'” which was modeled on the Beacon Hill concept in Boston. But staying home is clearly not the best option for everyone. And if that is the case, the elderly and their families need to be educated about what other services are available, what they cost and whether it is the right social model for them, in addition to the best care model.
Steve