Increasing Senior Living Facilities Occupancy Rates Through Targeted Marketing & Referrals

With advancements in healthcare, people are living longer and maintaining their independence for extended periods compared to previous generations. This new generation of seniors expects personalized, meaningful experiences, making traditional marketing approaches less effective in filling vacancies.

This post explores strategies to elevate your senior living community’s reputation and increase occupancy rates.

Why Reputation Matters

Most potential residents are internet-savvy and will search online for information about your community. Reviews and testimonials can either build trust or raise doubts. A solid online presence and positive word-of-mouth referrals are key drivers. In fact:

• 47% of referrals lead to move-ins.
• 68% of referrals lead to tours.

Word-of-mouth, whether from residents, families, or local physicians, is one of the most powerful marketing tools.

Driving Engagement with Targeted Marketing

To stand out, your marketing must be personalized and engaging. Here are some strategies that work:

• Phygital Campaigns for Conversion: Blending traditional ("physical") marketing with modern digital strategies—a concept often called "phygital" marketing—provides a tactile way to engage residents while integrating online resources. Examples include:

• • Custom QR Codes: Adding QR codes to flyers, brochures, or event invitations can offer instant access to facility tours, testimonial videos, and contact forms. A quick scan turns curiosity into action.
  • Engaging Flyers and Brochures: High-quality printed materials reassure families about your professionalism and showcase your community’s features. Every detail reinforces trust.
    
    
• Promotional Merchandise: Promotional products offer long-term visibility and strengthen your community’s brand. Research shows:

• Over 40% of recipients keep branded promotional items for at least a decade.
• More than half share items with others, extending visibility organically.

Use these items strategically:

• Event Giveaways: Distribute branded items during facility tours to remind visitors of their experience long after they’ve left.
• Resident Welcome Kits: Offer new residents branded gifts—such as mugs, tote bags, or cozy blankets—to foster a sense of belonging.
• Encouraging Reviews with Giveaways: Inspire residents and their families to leave glowing online reviews using small, meaningful rewards from your promotional collection.
  
  

To streamline this process, consider creating an online company store where employees, residents, and families can access a curated range of high-quality branded items.

Why Symphonix?

Symphonix has 10 years of experience with senior living facilities. We help senior living communities thrive by blending creativity with data-backed strategies.

Marketing in the senior living industry requires more than just advertising; it demands empathy, insight, and precision.

Symphonix:

• Has years of expertise helping senior living facilities overcome marketing hurdles.
• Develops personalized campaigns that blend creativity with data-backed strategies.
• Offers practical solutions, such as phygital campaigns or custom merchandise, to boost awareness and trust.

We understand that choosing a senior living community is a significant decision for families. That’s why we focus on helping your community become the clear standout among competitors.

Thrive in a Competitive Industry

Marketing in senior living isn’t just about filling vacancies; it’s about building lasting connections. Let Symphonix help you refine your marketing strategy and boost your community’s occupancy rates. Contact us today to learn more!