Senior Placement Agencies

How Do Senior Placement Agencies Work?

Before anyone is sent to live in a new environment, a coordinator will sit down with you and your family to assess your situation. He or she will take the following information into consideration:

• Medical conditions and needs
• Financial status
• Desired location
• Religious or cultural needs

All of this information will give the coordinator a good idea of what type of living situation is best for you. Once you all come to an agreement about what type of facility is best and where there is availability, the coordinator will set up a tour so you can see the facility and ask questions. You will most likely visit several communities so you can make comparisons and determine which one is best for you.

Once you decide, the coordinator will work with you and contact your insurance to determine what will be covered and what will not be covered, as far as senior living is concerned. This will help you understand whether you can afford a certain location. This process may take a little time, but be patient and know that the coordinator is working in your best interest to find you the right and most affordable living situation possible.

After a final decision is made, the coordinator from the senior placement agency will help organize your move. The agency understands this is a big undertaking, both emotionally and physically. That’s why it’s important to have someone in your corner that you feel comfortable with and can trust.

The coordinator will most likely stay in touch during the transition after you move in to make sure no problems arise. It is his or her job to make sure you’ve made the right decision and feel comfortable in your new home.

Things to Consider When Using a Senior Placement Agency

Just as you shouldn’t jump into a new living environment too quickly, you don’t want to go with the first senior placement agency you find. Always do your homework, and make sure they are reputable with a good track record.

Here are some other things to consider:

• Language barriers: If English is not your first language, you may feel more comfortable with a senior placement agency that has employees who speak your language. This can also be helpful if you are looking for an environment that caters to your cultural beliefs and needs.
• Someone who knows the area: Before contacting a senior placement agency, you should have a general idea of where you want to live. While you may not know the ins and outs of the area, having a good idea of where you want to live will help the coordinator narrow down the choices. The agency you decide to work with should be familiar with the general area so that he or she can provide you with vital information to help you make your decision.
• Can work in a timely manner: While some people have the luxury of time when choosing a new place to live, others do not. For some older adults, getting discharged from the hospital means having to find a new place to live as soon as possible. That’s why you want to find an agency that has the time to work with you.
• Familiar with Medicare and Medicaid: Dealing with insurance companies, Medicare, and Medicaid can become tedious. You want an agency that has experience dealing with all types of insurance and benefits programs so that you can maximize the amount of aid you receive and minimize your out-of-pocket costs. Many seniors live on a fixed income, so this piece of the puzzle is crucial.

How Do I Find a Senior Placement Agency?

If you are computer savvy, you can do an internet search for a senior placement agency in your area. But the best way may be through word of mouth. Doctors often have this type of information and can refer you to reputable agencies. Social workers at hospitals and rehab centers are good sources, as well. You can also give us a call, and we can connect you with a senior placement agency that meets your needs. Remember, you want to find an experienced agency, especially if you don’t have the luxury of time on your side.

Do I Have to Pay a Senior Placement Agency?

Many senior placement agencies do not require payment from the client. But, many facilities have contracts with agencies and will pay the agency an agreed-upon price if a new client is referred to their facility.

This is something you need to watch. If an agency knows it will get a certain commission for referring you to the facility, you may be sent somewhere that is not in your best interest.

It’s best to ask about the agency’s policy on referrals and which facilities they are contracted with. If one of those facilities is indeed in your best interest, that’s great. But if it’s not, you’ll want to make sure you find one that is, regardless of any contracts.

In the end, senior placement agencies are good resources for seniors and families who need help finding living options. These agencies have a database of facilities at their fingertips and are familiar with the necessary processes. Be sure to research them fully to make sure you have the right people in your corner.