5 Sales and Marketing Trends Driving Change in the Assisted Living Industry

Posted by Donna Mae Scheib on July 25, 2016

5 Sales and Marketing Trends Driving Change in the Assisted Living Industry

Learn more about the forces shaping the senior living industry.

Assisted living was a relatively unheard of concept just 25 years ago, but today it’s the fastest growing long-term care option available to seniors. Assisted living facilities provide personalized senior care to fit each individual’s needs while encouraging independence and freedom of choice.

The assisted living industry has evolved over time and is experiencing shifts that will affect the way senior care facilities promote their businesses and engage with prospective residents. The following are 5 important sales and marketing trends shaping the industry.  

1. Preferences are evolving

Modern senior living facilities offer the latest amenities, comfort, and privacy in beautifully decorated environments. There are a variety of facilities to choose from, ranging from high-rise apartments in large cities to cozy communities with a small-town feel. Today’s seniors have different attitudes and preferences than they did generations ago. Increasingly, seniors and their adult children are demanding higher quality amenities and more personalized service.

2. Demand

The elderly population is expanding. The 65-and-older population is projected to reach over 83.7 million by 2050.  As more people head into retirement, the need for assisted living facilities will grow.

3. Nursing homes are losing popularity

Fewer people are looking to nursing homes as a long-term care option. Factors like the high cost of skilled nursing and cuts to Medicare and Medicaid have fueled this trend. Independent living facilities and other alternatives are thriving, on the other hand. This is because people are becoming better informed about the options available to them, thanks to the Internet.

4. Call-ins are an important source of leads

Even though people frequently search online for senior living homes, they eventually pick up the phone. Call-ins generate many leads and tours for assisted living facilities. This means that it’s important for senior living communities to have someone available to answer the phone. Senior living communities can achieve great results by having a call center with dedicated staff responding to inquiries and booking appointments. Having a call center is key to achieving a greater ROI from online leads.

5. The Internet has had a significant impact on consumer behavior

The Internet has dramatically changed how people shop for everything, including senior living communities. The adult children of seniors are generally the primary decision-makers when it comes to selecting a long-term care facility, and they tend to be more tech-savvy than their elders. According to a survey conducted by Google, 75% of respondents used search engines to find more information about senior living.

Today, it’s crucial for assisted living facilities to have a strong online presence and marketing platform. Communities with well-designed websites and great reviews are more desirable to prospective residents, who will be more likely to call in and schedule visits.

Join Our Senior Living Directory

The influence of the Internet will continue to grow over the next several years. Stay ahead of the game by optimizing your assisted living community’s online presence and joining a senior living directory. A directory allows you to post information about your facility, including details about amenities and photos.

Senior Living Link is the preferred destination for people searching for senior care services. We list facilities throughout the country, in locations like Washington, Florida, California, Texas, and more. Join us today and make it easier for prospective residents to find you! Memberships are month-to-month and can be cancelled at any time.

Flickr / Photo by Automotive Social

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