The Importance Of Using A Local Senior Living Advisor

Jennifer McAndrews

Using a local service or source may often provide the best results in meeting the needs of a situation. This is the case as well when beginning the journey of transitioning a loved one into a senior living environment.

Local senior living advisors are knowledgeable about the communities in their area and personally know members of the staff in these communities. A relationship is formed with families when meeting and touring these communities together, and it’s a relationship that does not happen when an online service is utilized instead. Local advisors provide consultation and guidance throughout the process, focusing on the best result for the family member who will be making the move.

The goals and benefits of working with a local advisor are to narrow down the options for safe, appropriate and affordable living situations in the geographic area that has been determined to make the most sense. The area may be where the loved one has lived for many years or just in more recent years. It could also be closer to family members, allowing them to visit more frequently.

This journey can be an extremely stressful event for everyone involved. By forming a personal relationship with the senior and family members involved in the transition, an advisor can bring a sense of calm and reassurance through the process.

Some online service options only capture a potential senior's contact information, which is shared with many communities. Others may not be the best fit or affordable. This results in communities emailing and calling the senior and family members. That input of information is hard to manage, and it can create more work and stress for people beginning to research what choices might work for them.

When the decision is made on which community is the best fit, the advisor works closely with the family to facilitate the move. This may involve referrals to movers, real estate agents and companies that handle downsizing and estate sales. Again, that personal connection to everyone involved is reassuring and so important. It is not something that can be replicated by an online option.

Senior living advisors’ services are free to families. The advisor is ultimately paid a placement fee by the community when the senior moves in. These advisors can also be a great source of knowledge about other services in the area that seniors may benefit from. The senior care world is complex and ever-changing. Consider having an advocate along the way.