TIPS FOR ONLINE RESEARCH
Keyword search
Some words to use when searching online:
Elders
Seniors
Aging
Caregiving
Living options
Assisted living
Retirement living
Nursing Homes
Home Care
Protect private information
Protect your private information and don't give out any information online or over the phone that you are uncomfortable sharing.
Do not provide the following if you do not know specifically who is receiving it and how it will be used:
Medicare #
Medicaid #
Social Security #
Credit Card #
For-Profit Entities and Companies
There are many for-profit entities online that will provide a search service for you, anything from finding home care agencies, assisted living communities, senior living communities and nursing home care. Most are reputable but know whether you are paying a fee for the service. In some cases, the referring community or aging service pays a fee to receive referrals.
descriptions and terms vary
The names of services vary from market area. Use the glossary of terms on this website to wade through the many names of services. Even then, regulations vary from state to state and some assisted living programs in one state may provide different services from those in another state. Ask questions and look closely at the service offerings.
be wary of reviews
One person's experience may not reflect others. Be wary of all reviews that are posted about senior living and aging services. You don't know the circumstances for the person posting the review. This is true for positive and negative reviews. Be a savvy consumer and do your own research through phone calls and visits.
virtual tours
If you are concerned about touring retirement communities during the pandemic, or you are assisting a loved one across the country, ask for a virtual tour. Ask for a live virtual tour when possible. That will give you the best view of reality.