Departments
Senior Focus

#1 --> The Advance Planner
This is the person who starts their research early, taking their time to become an
educated consumer and exploring all the options that are available. Usually this type of
person is not afraid of the tough questions, willing to discuss end-of-life issues and
engage in deep, meaningful conversations with loved ones. The advanced planner is the
one who makes a move before they have to and stays in control of the process.

#2 --> The Reluctant Consumer
This person is somewhat reluctantly pulled into the research process by their spouse or
adult children. They really don’t want to have to face the idea of making changes in their
lives, but grudgingly participate in the process.

#3 --> The Wake-Up Call
This is the person who finally concedes to make a move after a near crisis: when the
health challenge cannot be denied any longer and a change must happen. If the person
is fortunate, they may still be capable of functioning in an independent living community.

#4 --> The Scrambler
This is the person who suffers a more serious health challenge that necessitates an
immediate move. It usually involves family making all the choices because the older adult
can no longer handle processing the options or changes. Most times it involves moving
directly into assisted living or skilled nursing care.
Unfortunately I sometimes experience seniors that choose to put their head in the sand
and play ostrich about their aging process, thinking they are staying in control of their
lives, when the reality is just the opposite. Then, when a serious crisis occurs, someone
else will have to scramble around and make the decisions for them as to where they will
live and who will care for them.
The wonderful thing is we are all “at choice” in life and each person can choose how they
want to approach this aspect of their journey. So the question to ask yourself or your
loved ones is… How will you decide?
Everyone makes their
decisions about senior
housing lifestyles differently,
and each situation is unique.
However, senior housing
professionals have come to
recognize 4 main types of
consumer.
Housing Decisions
By Randalynne Kaye
This article was submitted by Randalynn Kaye, author of Senior Housing 101 and
founder of Elder-Transitions. For more information or to contact Randalynn, visit
http://www.Elder-Transitions.com