Inside the Role of a Senior Living Family Advocate: Local, Compassionate, and Personal Care
- Cheryl Harris
- May 7, 2024
- 3 min read
When it comes to transitioning into senior living, having someone by your side who truly understands the journey can make all the difference. In our latest video, I share my story and explain what being a Senior Living Family Advocate really entails, as well as how my approach sets me apart from larger, national companies.
My Journey: From Hesitant Beginnings to a Passionate Calling
My carrer in senior living started over 10 years ago in an assisted living memory care community. Initially, working with the elderly wasn’t an easy fit for me. I wasn’t used to the environment or the unique challenges it presented. However, as time went on, I discovered a deep connection with the residents—their stories, their needs, and the relationships that formed. I fell in love with the community, and that passion has only grown stronger over the years.
When COVID hit, the strain on healthcare and senior care became all too apparent. Faced with uncertainty and rising challenges, I decided it was time to take a leap of faith. Encouraged by the families I’d connected with over the years, I set out on my own as a Senior Living Family Advocate, committed to making a personal and lasting impact.
What I Do as a Senior Living Family Advocate
At its core, my role is about guiding families through one of the most significant transitions of their lives. Here’s how I work with you:
Personalized Consultations: I take the time to truly listen to families’ needs, concerns, and hopes for their loved ones. Unlike larger national companies that might offer a more generic approach, I provide one-on-one consultations that are tailored to each unique situation.
Local Expertise: Being deeply rooted in the community means I know local care providers and senior living options personally. This insider knowledge allows me to recommend options that are best suited for your loved one's needs.
In-Person Support: I make house calls. I don’t just answer the phone and take down information—I visit families, spend quality time with them, and get a real sense of their situation. This helps build the trust necessary to guide you through this emotional process.
Comprehensive Guidance: Whether it’s navigating pricing structures, understanding care levels, or simply being a trusted friend during a challenging time, I’m here to support families every step of the way. My approach is holistic—addressing both the emotional and practical aspects of the transition.
How I Differ from the Rest
What truly sets my practice apart is my commitment to building genuine, lasting relationships. While many national companies operate through a more transactional model, I believe that real care goes beyond just matching families with communities. It’s about:
Deep Community Connections: I've spent years working in the field and developing strong relationships with local care communities. This means you get recommendations from someone who truly understands the local landscape.
A Genuine Commitment to Care: Yes, I’m matching families with facilities, but I'm also building lasting relationships. I invest time in getting to know you and your loved ones, ensuring that the solutions I suggest are a perfect fit for your unique circumstances.
Flexibility and Personal Attention: Unlike larger, national companies that may rely heavily on automated systems, I provide hands-on support and ongoing follow-up. My commitment is to be there every step of the way, offering guidance that adapts as your needs change.
Let’s Connect
Transitioning into senior living is a major life event—one that should be met with care, compassion, and a deep understanding of your individual needs. If you or a loved one are facing this transition and need guidance, I’m here to help.
Call or text me at 269-207-1720, and let’s chat about how we can make this transition a little easier together.
Embrace this new chapter with the assurance that you’re not alone. With local expertise, a personal touch, and a decade of experience, I’m dedicated to guiding you and your family every step of the way. Feel free to share your thoughts or ask questions in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you!
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