Interview by Beverly Graves with Jasilika Davidson.
Making decisions about where and how to live in later years isn’t easy. Many factors influence these choices, including health considerations and emotional needs. Senior living options range from active adult communities to well-run nursing homes — and everything in between. As families navigate these paths, senior living specialists provide invaluable support, helping loved ones find the right environment for their next stage of life.
To learn more about senior living placement services, I spoke with Jasilika Davidson, owner and senior advisor for Assisted Living Locators in West Columbus, Ohio, a nationwide, no-cost senior placement service.
What is a senior living advisor?
A senior living advisor is a trained professional who helps seniors and their families find the best living arrangements as their needs evolve. These advisors assist with everything from downsizing to senior apartments to transitioning into assisted living, memory care, or nursing homes. Memory care communities provide specialized support for seniors living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Learn more about memory care services.
How do senior placement services support families?
Senior placement services aim to provide families with expert guidance, emotional support, and logistical assistance during what can be a stressful and overwhelming transition. Advisors offer insightful knowledge, assist families in evaluating options, and advocate for their loved ones’ best interests.
“I like to think I offer families peace of mind during a stressful time,” Davidson said. “Whether a senior is moving from another state to be closer to family or a loved one’s medical needs have become too much for family members to manage alone, I’m passionate about easing that burden.
When my godmother, who was like a second mother to me, developed dementia, I witnessed firsthand the difference between good and poor care. I never want a family to feel uncertain or regretful about their choices. I walk alongside them throughout the entire process to ensure they find compassionate, high-quality care.
Finding the right care is more than a checklist — it’s about honoring the lives, needs, and dreams of every senior I serve.”
How does the senior living placement process work?
Senior living advisors begin by assessing medical requirements, lifestyle preferences, financial resources, and emotional dynamics to identify communities that best fit their clients. We then take care of much of the legwork, from researching options to scheduling visits.
“I dive deep into understanding who the senior is — their likes and dislikes, their hopes for the future, and where they feel most comfortable,” Davidson explained. “Then, I do the footwork. Families don’t have to spend hours calling communities or arranging tours. I organize everything, accompany them on visits, and help them focus on asking the right questions and gathering the information they need to make the best decision. My goal is to make the experience less stressful and ensure they feel confident and supported as they make important decisions.”
Do senior living advisors provide ongoing support after placement?
Yes, many senior living advisors maintain relationships with families even after a placement has been made. They often check in, offer additional support if needed, and continue to advocate for the senior’s well-being.
“I never just leave a family at the door,” Davidson said. “I stay in touch to make sure the transition is going smoothly. If any concerns arise, I step in to help resolve them.
My background — from serving in the military to working as a journalist and later as a teacher while raising my children — has always centered on service and connection. For the past six years, helping seniors and their families during these critical moments has been my passion. I call it heart work — a specialty that doesn’t require a medical degree but makes all the difference.
I call it ‘heart work’ — a specialty that doesn’t require a medical degree but makes all the difference.”
What are some of your most memorable moments helping seniors?
Advisors often create lasting memories with the families and communities they serve—from milestone celebrations to heartfelt personal connections.
“There are so many special moments,” Davidson smiled. “But one that stands out is the senior prom we organized at a local community center to support the Alzheimer’s Association. We had a king and queen, a DJ, champagne, fantastic food — even a professional photographer capturing everyone in their tuxes and gowns.
It was just before COVID hit — one of the last big celebrations many seniors were able to experience in person before isolation became such a challenge. The prom pictures we sent home became cherished keepsakes. Moments like that remind me why I do what I do — to celebrate lives well-lived.
I often tell my husband I’m blessed to do ‘heart work.’ After a full day of helping seniors and families, I reward myself with a massage, treat myself to a meal at Chick-fil-A, and get ready to do it all again the next day.
