Date Approved
9-2-2011
Embargo Period
3-3-2020
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
M.A. Public Relations
Department
Public Relations/Advertising
College
Ric Edelman College of Communication & Creative Arts
Advisor
FitzGerald, Suzanne
Subject(s)
Life care communities; Communication in marketing
Disciplines
Public Relations and Advertising
Abstract
The purposes of this study were to determine the public relations and marketing techniques used by assisted living facilities (ALFs) to attract and retain senior residents, investigate the perception of effectiveness in PR and marketing practices among assisted living administrators and identify the role of community relations within ALFs. Consistent with previous research, interviews and surveys with assisted living professionals reveal communities operate using traditional techniques and channels including, but not limited to, newspaper ads, facility tours, community events, word-of-mouth promotion, direct-mail marketing/materials, newsletters, facility websites and professional referral development. Respondents report minimal use of new media, yet maintain an overall positive outlook on their individual facilities' efforts. However, participants' view of the overall assisted living industry contains concerns regarding the economy and the misunderstood perception of independent care. Finally, results suggest a majority of community relations departments integrate marketing and public relations functions within ALFs.
Recommended Citation
Rabouin, Brianne, "Public relations and marketing techniques used by assisted living communities to attract and retain residents" (2011). Theses and Dissertations. 309.
https://rdw.rowan.edu/etd/309
