Senior Living Placement FAQs: Answers from Seattle’s Trusted Advisors

Washington’s Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) licenses adult family homes, assisted living communities and skilled nursing facilities. Every provider receives routine inspections, and additional visits may occur when concerns are reported. These inspection reports can be helpful, but they only show a snapshot in time and often reflect documentation or process issues rather than daily quality.

If you want a simple, clear walk-through of how inspections work and how to read citation reports, visit our
DSHS Inspections and Licensing Guide.

Senior referral agencies, also called placement agencies or eldercare advisory services, help older adults find the best retirement community, assisted living, or adult family home for their needs. They provide:

• Customized recommendations

• Education and guidance

• Ongoing support

Most agencies are compensated by the facilities they partner with after a successful move-in, meaning there is often no direct cost to the family. Some agencies also offer services by the hour or flat fee depending on your needs.

Now or soon. Early planning gives you:

• A clear understanding of trade-offs and costs

• Time to build Plan A and Plan B

• Peace of mind for you and your loved ones

Even if you’re not ready to move, early exploration helps you make better decisions later.

Referral agencies simplify the complex process of choosing senior living by:

• Learning about your care needs, finances, and lifestyle preferences

• Accessing insider knowledge about hundreds of local providers

• Coordinating with your family and care team until the right placement is found

The result is a long-lasting, well-matched home that meets both personal and medical needs.

No. The quality of a referral agency depends on:

• Experience and knowledge of seniors’ social, health, and financial needs

• Compassion and client care approach

• Connection to local resources and technology

• On-site provider visits and personalized service

In King County alone, there are over 1,200 adult family homes and hundreds of assisted living communities. A strong agency can manage this volume of data in a meaningful, searchable way.

Silver Age Advisors is dedicated to promoting independence, safety, and life enjoyment for each client. Key differentiators include:

• Agents with personal and professional experience caring for older adults

• Honest feedback to local providers to improve care quality

• Our custom-built provider tracking database, designed to handle hundreds of homes and care details

Meet our team on our Team page to learn more about their backgrounds and qualifications.

Silver Age receives compensation in two ways:

1. Commission from partnering communities (75–100% of the first month’s rent, paid after move-in and verified at 30, 60, 90 days)

2. Hourly or flat-fee services for families who prefer direct payment

All fees and terms are fully disclosed upfront.

We start with a phone call to understand your needs

• If it’s a good fit, we schedule a discovery session (intake)

• Intakes are ideally in-person, but Zoom or phone is also available

The intake takes about one hour and follows State of Washington guidelines, covering:

• Current living situation and health

• Diagnoses and medications

• Support needed with activities of daily living

• Financial overview

• Personal preferences and goals

Our team members bring experience in:

• Occupational therapy, caregiving, and mental health

• Dementia care and adult family home management

• Teepa Snow’s Positive Approach to Care (Independent Certified Consultants)

Currently, no formal credential is required in WA to be an eldercare advisor, but all agencies follow the Elder and Vulnerable Adult Referral Agency Act.

Emergency moves: as quickly as 2 days

• Typical moves: a few weeks to a couple of months

• Long-term planning: up to a year, depending on readiness

Scheduling appointments with doctors or completing forms can influence timing.

Silver Age remains involved through:

• Minimum three post-move check-ins

• Support with any challenges or concerns

• Guidance for a smooth transition

Consulting for care planning

• Referrals to licensed mental health professionals or other experts

• Support during the transition process

We do not provide caregiving or moving services, but can help coordinate tasks through our partner network.

Yes. We work with spouses, siblings, guardians, and others involved in care. We ensure the older adult’s voice is heard in decisions, even if they cannot participate directly.

Absolutely. Our trusted partner network includes:

• Elder law attorneys

• Financial planners

• Movers and organizers

• Meal delivery or personal services

We can also find resources if a specific need arises.

Sorting belongings, deciding what to take or donate

• Scheduling primary care appointments, POLST forms, and medication orders

• Nursing assessments for Adult Family Homes

• TB testing (recommended within 30 days for communal settings)

Our database allows us to match you with homes based on highly specific needs, including:

• Pet policies (dogs, cats, assistance with pet care)

• Full kitchens, washer/dryer in-unit

• Medicaid acceptance after a private-pay period

• Special accessibility or care features