I spend quite a bit of time visiting my grandmother in her adult care home. It’s a busy place with family visitors, therapists, chaplains, nurses and potential clients coming for tours throughout the day. Too often, adult care home providers rely solely on referral agencies for potential clients and are frustrated by how long it can take to fill a vacant room. I think it’s important for providers to realize that there is an opportunity to attract new referrals with every single person who walks through the door.
- Family members of existing clients are especially prone to singing your praises and giving out your name (unless they are unhappy) because they can attest first-hand to your hard work and love that they see happening in the home. It’s okay to tell families that you have an open room and that you would appreciate them letting anyone who may be looking know. Make sure they have a few or your business cards to share with others.
- Home Health and Hospice therapists, nurses, and social workers are often asked by colleagues about good homes and vacancy availability. When any of these professionals come to your home, it’s important to introduce yourself, offer business cards, and answer any questions they may have. Again, it’s ok to let them know you have an opening and you can offer to show them the available room if they have time. These professionals see lots of clients throughout the day, but they will remember the providers who take the time to extend these professional courtesies.
- Neighbors are an excellent referral source for adult care homes. Go visit your neighbors. It’s a great excuse to meet your neighbors if you haven’t already and they will most likely be curious about your home and all the traffic they see throughout the day. If a neighbor knows that you have an open room in your home, you never know when they might need to place a loved one.
- Assisted Living and Retirement Communities can be your friend, not the enemy. If a resident has outgrown the level of care that is offered in a larger setting, most likely an adult care home is the next step. Get to know the marketing director and/or the administrator of any facilities that are nearby your home. Invite them for a tour and allow them to get to know your home and the level of care you offer. It’s a win-win for you and them to have a connection.
Lastly, don’t forget these tips on giving a great tour!
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