5 Ideas to Market Your Assisted Living Community with Events
Today’s seniors grew up in a world very different from what it has become, but that doesn’t mean that they are all unable to grasp modern technology. Unfortunately, sometimes they still need some more help than their families can provide, given that they have any left. That is where assisted living comes in.
The problem is that assisted living has been associated with a lot of poor treatment for those in their care. It’s where the elderly go to die alone without any of their loved ones caring about them. So, the first action is to ensure that families, and the senior citizens themselves, know that this one is going to be different. Keep reading for some effective ideas on assisted living marketing events.
#1 Host an Alcohol Tasting
As seniors reach a certain stage in life, their interests tend to become more focused, and they often prefer exploring new experiences within these specific areas. When it comes to engaging a diverse group of seniors, hosting a social event with food and beverages is an excellent strategy, and nothing exudes elegance quite like an alcohol tasting.
Partnering with a local winery, brewery, or distillery to organize an alcohol-tasting event is guaranteed to attract a crowd. Especially in the present times, people are seeking social activities more than ever, and alcohol tasting provides the perfect opportunity. Seniors, in particular, are drawn to tailored tastings that cater to their refined tastes and are eager to embrace new experiences.
#2 Get the Whole Family Involved
Not every senior citizen lacks the ability to make their own choices, but it's often the case that their families are diligently searching for a place where their loved ones can receive the proper care when they are unable to provide it themselves. Distance, numerous responsibilities, or other circumstances may prevent them from being there personally. Taking on the role of a caregiver is demanding, and everyone seeks assistance when making decisions about assisted living.
Therefore, it is crucial to appeal to the entire family. It's important to offer events that provide reassurance to families, ensuring them that their loved ones will be well taken care of, while also creating an inviting environment that encourages visits in an enjoyable manner. A common fear among seniors is the thought of dying alone without anyone to care for them, so it's essential to alleviate this fear. Additionally, people are less inclined to visit if the atmosphere feels stifling and unwelcoming all the time. Therefore, it's crucial to ensure there are activities and amenities that appeal to everyone throughout the decision-making process.
Here are some ideas to engage the entire family:
- Set up a booth at family fairs and festivals.
- Deliver speeches at churches to reach out to the community.
- Organize family fun events to foster a sense of togetherness.
- Establish a community garden for shared enjoyment.
By offering opportunities for families to spend time together both inside and outside of assisted living facilities and homes, you demonstrate that families are valued and that those under care continue to have social connections and engaging activities.
#3 Host a Trade Show or Art Festival
Like alcohol tastings, seniors know what they like and are more receptive to discovering new things if it is within their niche of interests. They’re also at the point where they have time to go visit art and trade shows, making those perfect locations to slip in a little bit of marketing for assisted living resources.
It also shows that they are welcome to keep up their interests while in care. Additionally, if it is hosted by the assisted living group itself, it shows them that their interests are also important to the company which gives them a little bit more leaning to them instead of a different one.
#4 Reserve Your Own Booth at Festivals and Fairs
If there is ever a place where people are going to be with their families having fun and being in a positive mindset, it’s at a festival or fair. It’s also the place where people expect to have constant booths advertising to them and getting to have a real person right there in front of them that they can talk to and ask questions. This is extremely appealing, especially to the elder generations.
It’s a prime example of going to the source and showing them that there are real people behind the company. They get to meet and experience some of them right there, getting a crucial first impression that will set them apart from any competitor that’s not doing it. The only important thing to remember is to not staff the booth entirely with people who they will never see again, as that will inevitably leave people feeling lied to in the long run.
#5 Make Things Free
There is no more captivating word than "free" when it comes to sparking curiosity. If you have the opportunity to offer something for free, seize it. Organize free events, provide free trials, offer free consultations, give away free gifts, or even provide free shipping for items that customers may need to order. Naturally, people are drawn to anything labeled "free" rather than something burdened with additional costs.
Furthermore, distributing tangible objects during an event not only gives attendees something to remember but also firmly implants the brand in their minds. This will make them more likely to search for that particular brand over competitors, as they have already heard about it and received something from it.
Unlike some younger generations, many senior citizens today desire to know what can be done to reward them for their lifelong efforts. Therefore, a freebie holds immense appeal for them, as it provides something tangible and straightforward that focuses more on their needs rather than simply promoting a product. It gains even more credibility if the freebie is genuinely valuable, rather than just another pen adorned with a company name and phone number.
