As you transition to a new chapter of life, you may find that your current living situation isn’t the ideal fit. But how can you choose the best arrangement for you? One way of determining that is with the help of a senior living advisor.
What is a senior living advisor?
If you’re considering senior living options, you may have come across senior living advisory services. These advisors also go by titles such as:
- Senior care advisor
- Senior care consultant
- Elder living advisor
- Elder care advisor
- Senior housing consultant
- Senior housing advisor
- Assisted living consultant
So what is a senior living advisor? These professionals are well-versed in living arrangements for older adults in a certain geographical area and can help guide individuals and families based on needs, preferences, and budgets.
Should you work with a senior living advisor?
There are a few factors to consider as you choose whether to work with a senior living advisor.
They can simplify the process.
A senior care advisor can be helpful if you’re overwhelmed and unsure where to start. Working with an advisor can simplify and accelerate the decision-making process because they already know information that could take you many hours or days to gather on your own. Keep in mind, though, that when it comes to your specific situation, you know your (or your loved one’s) needs best. Give plenty of weight to your own thoughts about the ideal senior living arrangement.
They may be partial to certain senior living communities.
Senior living advisors often work independently rather than in association with a specific senior care provider. However, they may receive a commission from a senior living community when they refer a client there. That means they’re likely to limit their recommendations to certain communities in their curated network.
Their services typically come at no cost to you.
Because these advisors receive a commission from senior living communities when they refer new residents, their services are generally free to individuals. Some senior care consultants may not follow this model, however, so you should always ask how compensation works before assuming their services are free.
How else can you evaluate senior living options?
Senior living advisors can be extremely helpful, but you don’t necessarily need to work with one to make an informed decision for yourself or with your loved one. If you prefer to navigate the process on your own, there are plenty of ways you can explore your options independently.
Consider your needs.
Start by considering your needs and budget. This is one of the first topics a senior living advisor would discuss with you because it’s foundational in choosing the right option. Consider what’s driving you to seek out senior living arrangements. What environment are you looking for? Do you need clinical support? Are there certain amenities that are important to you? These questions can help you visualize your ideal situation.
Talk with loved ones.
Consider discussing the matter with your family to obtain different perspectives and input. Even if they cannot contribute new information to the conversation, they can provide a listening ear as you chat about your thoughts and options. Talking it through can often help you gain some clarity.
Look online.
Gone are the days when you needed to call around or collect pamphlets to learn about the senior living options in your area. A quick search online will help you learn about what’s available or find communities that fit your needs. Explore “About Us” pages and any other online resources senior living providers offer to learn more about them.
Visit communities in person.
Touring a potential senior living community can be an excellent way to learn more and get a feel for it. Once you’ve found a place you’re interested in, set up a time to check it out. While you’re there, talk to the team and find answers to your questions to determine whether their community is the right fit. Keep in mind that a senior living advisor may feel like an advocate for your needs, but team members at the right senior living community can fill that same role—listening to your concerns, answering your questions, and steering you in the right direction.
Work with our team at WesleyLife.
At WesleyLife, we can work with you and your family to evaluate your options. We offer a full network of senior living services, including independent living, memory care, assisted living, at-home care, and more.
As a nonprofit organization, we're focused on serving you and your loved ones wherever you call home. You can expect our team to share transparent information and genuine, individualized guidance about how the WesleyLife network of services can support you or your loved one. Talk to our team about your situation, and we will help you navigate your options.
Whether you are working with a professional or undergoing the process alone, use our “Senior Living Community Evaluation Checklist” to make the best decision for yourself or with your loved one.
