According to the U.S. Census Bureau, last July there were more than 54 million U.S. residents age 65 and older. This statistic is especially relevant during these challenging pandemic times. More seniors are navigating their life challenges without help from family and friends as it remains vital to isolate to protect them. Whether they live alone, in an assisted living facility, rehab, or nursing home, they must take a more proactive approach to managing their health and well-being. Items such as health guides, slider charts, walker seats—and even tea and coffee—can all be considered senior living products.
Senior living can mean many different scenarios, depending on the situation. There are those that live independently love their home and want to remain independent for as long as possible. That said, it does present challenges. Assisted living is one step beyond remaining in one’s home. Seniors who move to nursing homes need the most intervention. The following are popular products designed for seniors to maximize their health and happiness—and hopefully remain independent for as long as possible!
Slider charts and pocket sliders are amazing tools that seniors can use to keep their health in check and stay on track with medications. They are available in a variety of topics. Coloring Book Solutions offers a slide chart, Living with Alzheimer's, that provides tips for caregivers of Alzheimer patients to manage everyday activities—such bathing, eating, and dressing.
RFG Line’s interactive pocket slider contains information on Senior Health and Safety. This interactive slide chart features great topics such as proper exercise, staying active, safety, choosing a doctor, arthritis, and other diseases as well as an extensive section on nutritious foods.
A Urinary Incontinence in Men and Women also comes from RFG, which highlights some of the symptoms, causes, and treatments for this issue. It is perfect for doctor’s offices, hospitals, senior living facilities, and many other health-conscious end-users. This informational card provides interactive learning with a sliding informational card. Each bullet point is augmented with interesting information provided through a clear viewing window.
There are also a number of health guides for seniors. RFG Line’s Good Health Guide for Seniors details information on exercise, nutrition, and general health. It also includes record keeping sections for medications and blood pressure.
TradeNet Publishing’s Forever Fit health guidebook shares healthy lifestyle nutrition and is also an exercise guide for the older adult. This nutritional aid and cookbook are a perfect fit for hospitals and health centers—ideal for physician referral campaigns, assisted living, wellness programs, and more.
There are also products in this market sector that help seniors to foster independent living. The AdCapitol Walker allows most walkers to be used as a temporary rest stop, and the seat doesn't need to be removed when the walker is folded. The hook and loop strap can keep the seat out of the way when not in use. This item is ideal for hospitals, senior care, and hospice. The Walker –Tote, available in denim and twill, features two equal pockets on front, a larger pocket behind, and a wraparound flap with hook and loop closure.
Keeping senior citizens’ memories engaged can also help ensure they live their best lives—for longer! American Calendar Company’s Word Search Puzzle Book can help prevent Alzheimer's and perhaps delay Dementia (according to The Today Show and Prevention Magazine). These puzzle books contain 50-word search puzzles with solutions in the back.
Over a Richard’s Gourmet, there has been a large demand for items that can be integrated into a kit and used at home. To date, the company’s two biggest sellers in this market segment are: Tea (custom printed and its tea sampler), and larger 6-ounce to 1-pound bags of coffee.
When it come to selling senior products, distributors first need to realize the scope of this market, which can encompass doctors’ offices, rehab facilities, retirement communities, hospital waiting rooms, assisted living facilities, and nursing homes. Consider offering a care package. In addition to the aforementioned senior living products, it could also include items such as crossword puzzles and pens, books/magazines, adult coloring books with colored pencils or makers, a deck of cards, and a subscription to a premium movie channel.
No matter the avenue that is pursued, never forget the value of this country’s elderly population. American writer Madeleine L’Engle said is best when she proclaimed, “The great thing about getting older is that you don't lose all the other ages you've been.”
Case Study
Richard Salzman, Richard’s Gourmet
We recently completed a project for an independent living facility that purchased custom printed herbal tea (DPTEA and FTS4W) for both their existing residents and for potential residents. The end user cost for the tea ranges from $0.48 to $2.15 depending on the item and quantity.