Posted under General & Marketing Massage for Special Populations & Massage for Elders
Hi all,
Reading Eileen’s blog entry inspired me to chime in. Eileen talks about how important it is to consider where potenital clients receive their information. What is THEIR prefered method– not YOURS. I couldn’t agree more! I had the privilege of contributing to Massage Magazine’s expert advise column in the June 09 issue where I provided guidance on the question of how to best connect with and market to elders.  I’ve worked with older adults for thirty years– the last ten years as a massage therapist. In order to market our services effectly to older adults it’s important to understand that there is quite a difference between someone who is 65 years old and the 80 year old in terms of where they might learn about the value of massage therapy. The 80 year old will most likely turn to print publications for information– newspapers; newsletters, etc. However those 65 year old “boomers” might be relying on the web for information. Here is a link to some interesting statistics about computor use by older adults. http://www.retirementhousingonline.com/UsageStats.aspx
I have a friend who develops senior housing complexes in Springfield, MO where I live. She told me that she is now including internet access as an amenity in all her developments and that she expects to see long term care facilities offer computor access. I’ve seen this in the retirement communities where I teach. Many have computor labs available for residents. I believe we will see even more emphasis on the use of the web to reach older adults now that the first wave of baby boomers have reached retirement age.Â
How do you connect with older adults in your practice?Â
Enjoy the beauty of summer!
Ann
