"How do I find residents?"
This is probably one of the most common questions asked of prospective and new clients.
My advice has always been to start thinking about your strategy to market your adult foster home from the very start of the process, and use a multi-pronged approach to getting your business noticed.
Marketing Your Business - Plan for Success
It's important to plan ahead and start creating your marketing plan early on in the process. It's vital to understand this is an ongoing process that will require self-reflection and planning. Consider the following questions: In what areas do you specialize? Do you specialize in care for individuals living with dementia or complex care needs? Do you offer additional services above and beyond, such as enrichment opportunities for residents?
Marketing Your Business - Avenues
There are a several avenues for finding potential residents, for both private pay and residents receiving services through Medicaid. The list below is not comprehensive, but is a start. The options listed below provide similar services, yet are targeted to different audiences:
- Placement agencies and care home listing websites;
- Discharge planners, care/case managers, and social workers; and
- State or County diversion/transition programs.
As noted, with marketing the key is to have a plan and start the process early. It is also about being clear about what you offer and the benefit your services provide to future residents.
