Summary

In this episode, Jerry Vinci and Wendy D'Alessandro discuss the critical role of public relations in the senior living industry. They explore how PR can enhance marketing efforts, the importance of storytelling in shaping public perception, and the necessity of crisis communication plans. Wendy emphasizes the need for authenticity in PR and how it can help build trust with families and communities. The conversation also touches on the evolving landscape of senior living and the importance of adapting to meet the needs of today's seniors.

Learn More:

• Connect with Wendy D'Alessandro
• Learn more about Lynn Public Relations

Takeaways

• Senior living communities face a marketing problem that requires better storytelling.
• PR is essential for long-term brand building, not just crisis management.
• Effective PR and marketing collaboration can enhance community reputation and occupancy.
• Storytelling can shift public perception and attract potential residents.
• Crisis communication plans are vital for managing unexpected events in senior living.
• Authenticity in PR helps build trust with families and communities.
• Seniors are looking for lifestyle options, not just traditional retirement communities.
• Communities must adapt to the changing needs and preferences of seniors.
• Social media is a powerful tool for engaging with potential residents and families.
• Building relationships and understanding community culture is key to effective PR.

Chapters

00:00 The Marketing Dilemma in Senior Living

02:08 How Wendy Got Her Start in Public Relations

04:31 How PR and Marketing Can Work Together

13:14 How PR Can Reshape Public Perception about Senior Living

17:20 How Marketing Can Integrate PR more Effectively

19:27 What Makes a Great Story for Earned Media Coverage?

21:49 Getting Leadership to See Value in Public Relations

27:31 Crisis Communications Planning

31:09 Repairing Trust After a Crisis

33:01 The Impact of COVID-19 on Senior Living PR

36:43 Handling Negative Online Reviews

40:02 Building Trust with Families

42:42 How PR Helps Proviers Build Trust with Families

45:31 Differentiating Senior Living Communities

48:39 How Providers can Differentiate Themselves in a Saturated Market

52:55 Future Trends in PR for Senior Living

Summary

In this episode, Jerry Vinci and Angelica Flynn discuss the public relations challenges facing the senior living industry, including outdated perceptions and the importance of strategic communication. They explore the role of earned media versus paid media, the significance of storytelling, and how to effectively manage crises. The conversation highlights the need for communities to shift their narratives, engage with their audiences, and prepare for potential crises while emphasizing the evolving landscape of media consumption and the importance of language in shaping public perception.

Learn More:

• Connect with Angelica Flynn
• Learn more about AKCG Public Relations Counselors
• Connect with AKCG on LinkedIn
• Connect with AKCG on Facebook
• Connect with AKCG on Instagram

Takeaways

• Senior living has a PR problem due to outdated perceptions.
• Public relations is a crucial part of the marketing mix.
• Many people still equate senior living with nursing homes.
• Earned media provides third-party validation that paid media cannot.
• Media is hungry for positive, human-interest stories.
• Crisis communication plans should be regularly updated and practiced.
• Communities need to communicate effectively with various stakeholders during a crisis.
• Negative reviews can be managed through thoughtful responses.
• Positioning senior living as a lifestyle choice is essential for attracting younger seniors.
• Language plays a significant role in shaping public perception of senior living.

Chapters

00:00 The PR Challenge in Senior Living

02:04 Understanding Public Relations in Senior Living

03:18 How Strategic PR Supports Growth

06:24 How Earned Media Compliment Paid Efforts?

09:14 Angelica's Journey into PR

12:33 What Stories Does the Media Want to Cover?

19:17 Measuring the Impact of PR

24:10 Crisis Communication Preparedness

27:15 Understanding Crisis Beyond Major Events

29:42 Proactive PR in Crisis Management

33:23 Managing Negative Reviews

36:10 Changing Perceptions of Senior Living

40:02 Language and Identity in Senior Living

44:22 Future PR Challenges in Senior Living

Summary

In this episode, Jerry Vinci speaks with Dr. Merle Griff, a leading authority on elder care, about innovative approaches to senior care, including adult day health centers and intergenerational programs. They discuss the importance of social engagement for seniors, the challenges faced by family caregivers, and the need for flexible care models that adapt to the evolving needs of older adults. Dr. Griff shares insights from her book, 'Solace in the Storm,' emphasizing the significance of communication and self-care in caregiving.

Learn More:

• Connect with Dr. Merle Griff
• Get your copy of "Solace in the Storm"
• Learn more about SarahCare

Takeaways

• Senior care can be more affordable and less isolating.
• Intergenerational programs benefit both seniors and children.
• Adult Day Health Centers provide structured care, not babysitting.
• Social engagement is crucial for seniors' health and happiness.
• Family caregivers often feel isolated and overwhelmed.
• Listening to seniors' needs is essential for effective care.
• The average age of family caregivers is decreasing.
• Flexibility in care models is necessary for modern aging.
• Communication is key in addressing caregiving challenges.
• Self-care can be integrated into daily routines, even in small ways.

Chapters

00:00 Revolutionizing Senior Care

01:45 Introducing the Amazing Dr. Merle Griff

03:43 Dr. Merle's Journey into Senior Care

05:05 Early Discoveries in Intergenerational Programming

10:37 Understanding Adult Day Health Centers

12:57 Myths About Adult Day Health Centers

14:37 The Benefits of Adult Day Centers

17:32 Studio 55 - Innovations in Active Aging

22:55 Understanding the Rise of Dementia and Strokes

28:51 The Evolving Role of Family Caregivers

32:06 Navigating the Grieving Process in Caregiving

34:18 Integrating Services for Better Senior Living

36:41 Developing a More Flexible Personalized Care Model

38:17 Embracing Change in Senior Care Models

40:52 Key Takeaways from 'Solace in the Storm'

46:16 Keeping in Touch with Dr. Merle

Summary

In this episode, Jerry Vinci discusses the recent tariffs imposed by the Trump administration and their potential impacts on the senior living industry. He explores how these tariffs affect construction, operational costs, and the overall delivery of care in senior living communities. The conversation highlights the challenges faced by developers and operators, including rising costs, delays, and the need for strategic planning to navigate these changes effectively.

Takeaways

• President Trump's recent tariffs are sending shockwaves through multiple sectors.
• The tariffs aim to bolster domestic manufacturing but have significant ripple effects.
• Expect delays and higher costs in both development and repairs.
• Communities may defer renovations due to increased costs.
• Tariffs on medications could directly impact older adults.
• Higher costs for medical supplies and equipment are expected.
• Cost increases may ultimately be passed on to residents.
• The accessibility gap for assisted living could widen.
• Investors' confidence in senior living may waver due to rising costs.
• Strategic planning is essential to navigate the evolving landscape.

Chapters

00:00 Understanding the Impact of Tariffs on Senior Living

01:45 What Isn't in Trump's Crosshairs Yet But Will Be Soon

04:02 Key Areas of Senior Living Affected by Tariffs

08:48 Strategic Responses for Senior Living Operators

Summary

In this episode, Jerry Vinci interviews Jenny Kenderes, a seasoned expert in senior placement services. They discuss the importance of personalized approaches in senior living, the challenges posed by corporate placement agencies, and the misconceptions surrounding senior living options. Jenny shares her insights on building relationships with communities, navigating family dynamics, and the role of social media in connecting with families. The conversation highlights the need for quality leads and the future of marketing in the senior living industry.

Learn More:

• Connect with Jenny Kenderes on LinkedIn
• Learn more about Premier Senior Solutions
• Connect with Jenny on TikTok
• Connect with Jenny on Instagram

Takeaways

• Personalized service is crucial in senior placement.
• Families often feel overwhelmed and guilty about placement decisions.
• Local knowledge significantly improves placement outcomes.
• Corporate agencies often provide unqualified leads.
• Building relationships with communities enhances service quality.
• Social media is a powerful tool for engagement and education.
• Families need support in navigating the emotional aspects of placement.
• Quality over quantity is essential in lead generation.
• Understanding family dynamics is key to successful placements.
• The senior living industry is evolving rapidly, requiring adaptability.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Senior Placement Services

00:48 Welcome to From Leads to Leases Podcast

01:51 Welcome Jenny Kenderes of Premier Senior Solutions

02:44 How Jenny Got Her Start in the Senior Living Industry

07:32 Challenges with National Referral Agencies

11:16 Keeping Up with Changes in Your Local Communities

13:24 Why Jenny Only Recommends 3 to 4 Communities at a Time

15:32 Navigating Emotional Hurdles in Senior Living

18:54 Getting Change Ready for Senior Living

23:46 Why Personal Attention Makes All the Difference

26:39 The Role of Communication in Senior Living

29:00 Improving Relationships with Local Referral Partners

33:16 Leveraging Social Media for Senior Living Marketing

45:00 Challenges and Future of Senior Placement

49:08 Connecting with Premier Senior Solutions

Summary

In this episode, Jerry Vinci interviews Shanna Eckberg, CEO of St. John's Lutheran Community, discussing the challenges and innovations in rural senior living. Shanna shares her journey from food service to CEO, emphasizing the importance of company culture and the impact of technology, particularly remote patient monitoring, on improving care. The conversation also covers the challenges of recruiting talent in rural areas, maintaining occupancy rates, and the significance of a $600,000 grant aimed at enhancing senior care. Shanna highlights the need for community engagement and the future of senior living in light of changing demographics and technological advancements.

Learn More:

• Connect with Shanna Eckberg
• Learn more about St. John's Lutheran Community
• Connect with St. John's on Facebook
• Connect with St. John's on Instagram

Takeaways

• Shanna Eckberg secured a $600,000 grant for senior care.
• Remote patient monitoring enhances care without replacing staff.
• Company culture is crucial for staff retention and engagement.
• Rural senior living faces unique operational challenges.
• Maintaining strong occupancy requires diverse service offerings.
• Effective communication is key to team engagement.
• Technology can improve efficiency and resident safety.
• Community awareness is essential for new initiatives.
• Funding opportunities exist for innovative projects.
• The aging population will demand new care solutions.

Chapters

00:00 Revolutionizing Rural Senior Living

00:40 Show Intro and Welcoming Shanna Eckberg

02:47 The Journey to Leadership in Senior Living

06:37 Operational Hurdles in Rural Communities

09:35 Maintaining Strong Occupancy Rates

11:01 Innovations in Remote Patient Monitoring

13:55 Impact of Remote Patient Monitoring

17:32 Connected Community Grant Initiative

20:50 Aligning with Senior Living Mission

22:53 How Expanding to Serving the Community Started

25:12 Funding Technology and Innovation

26:35 Team Engagement and Leadership Development

29:03 Future of Senior Living in Rural Markets

32:23 Staying Connected with Shanna and St. Johns Lutheran Community

Summary

In this episode of 'From Leads to Leases', host Jerry Vincispeaks with Glenn Rapoport, CEO of CCI Health Technologies, about the evolving landscape of patient safety technology in senior living. They discuss the transition from facility management to health tech, the importance of understanding patient safety systems, and the operational challenges faced by senior living facilities. Glenn emphasizes the need for effective technology integration to enhance resident experience and retention, while also addressing staffing challenges and the future of senior living communities. The conversation highlights the critical role of technology in improving safety and operational efficiency, as well as the importance of choosing the right vendors and understanding the full scope of services offered.

Learn More:

• Connect with Glenn Rappaport
• Learn more about CCI Health Technologies

Takeaways

• Higher qualified leads convert to tours and move-ins.
• Understanding community needs is crucial for patient safety.
• Technology advancements are reshaping patient safety practices.
• Choosing the right safety system requires thorough research.
• Cost vs. benefits analysis is essential for technology investments.
• Smaller facilities struggle with reimbursement rates and technology investments.
• Telemedicine and home healthcare are on the rise.
• Staffing shortages are a significant challenge in healthcare.
• Technology can enhance resident experience and staff efficiency.
• Ongoing training and support are vital for successful technology implementation.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to the From Leads to Leases Podcast

01:44 Introducing Glenn Rappaport & CCI Health Technologies

02:42 Glenn's Transition from Facility Management to Health Tech

04:12 Understanding Patient Safety Technology

05:09 Gaps in Current Patient Safety Practices

05:55 What to Look For When Choosing a Safety System

08:22 Cost vs. Benefits of Patient Safety Systems

11:08 Operational Challenges in Senior Living

15:45 Future of Senior Living: Micro Communities vs. Larger Facilities

18:36 Staffing Challenges in Healthcare

20:29 The Role of Technology in Enhancing Care

23:46 Choosing the Right Vendor for Long-Term Success

30:42 Prioritizing Patient Safety in Operations

32:37 Budgeting for Patient Safety Technology

34:57 Stay Connected with Glenn and CCI

Summary

In this conversation, Jerry Vinci discusses the critical role of assisted living in the long-term care system, highlighting its cost-effectiveness and the high satisfaction rates among residents. He addresses the challenges faced by the sector, including outdated public policy, a shortage of units, and a workforce crisis. Vinci advocates for necessary changes in policy and investment to support the growing demand for assisted living, emphasizing the importance of caregivers and infrastructure in providing quality care for the aging population.

Takeaways

• Assisted living saves Medicare and Medicaid billions each year.
• It supports over 1.4 million older adults in the U.S.
• Assisted living is often overlooked in long-term care policy.
• The average assisted living resident is 85 years old.
• Assisted living saves Medicaid an estimated $43 billion a year.
• We need 880,000 new units of assisted living by 2030.
• New construction of assisted living is at a historic low.
• The caregiver shortage is a significant challenge.
• Policy needs to catch up with the realities of senior care.
• Investment incentives are crucial for development and staffing.

Chapters

00:00 Why Assisted Living Is Undervalued

00:40 The Necessity for Assisted Living Support

02:07 Misaligned Public Policy in Long-Term Care Funding

03:27 New Property Development is Way Behind

04:47 The Workforce Crisis in Senior Care

06:22 Advocating for Change in Assisted Living