There have been several lawsuits filed against A Place for Mom, a senior care referral service, alleging a variety of unfair and deceptive practices. These lawsuits have been consolidated into a multidistrict litigation (MDL) in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington.
Key Allegations in the Lawsuits
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A Place for Mom engaged in deceptive marketing practices by falsely claiming that its services were free to consumers.
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A Place for Mom charged excessive fees for its services.
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A Place for Mom failed to adequately disclose the terms and conditions of its services.
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A Place for Mom made it difficult for consumers to cancel their contracts.
Outcome of the Lawsuits
In 2019, A Place for Mom settled with the MDL plaintiffs for $6 million. As part of the settlement, A Place for Mom agreed to:
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Change its marketing materials to make it clear that its services are not free.
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Reduce its fees for its services.
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Provide more transparent disclosures about the terms and conditions of its services.
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Make it easier for consumers to cancel their contracts.
Implications of the Lawsuits
The A Place for Mom lawsuits raise serious concerns about the practices of senior care referral services. These lawsuits also underscore the importance of consumer protection laws and the need for consumers to be aware of their rights.
Recommendations for Consumers
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Be aware of the fees charged by senior care referral services.
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Read the terms and conditions of any contract before signing up for a senior care referral service.
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Be cautious of marketing materials that claim that a service is free.
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Shop around for different senior care referral services before making a decision.
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Ask questions about the services provided by senior care referral services.
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Get everything in writing.
Conclusion
The A Place for Mom lawsuits are an important step in protecting consumers from unfair and deceptive practices. Consumers should be aware of their rights and take steps to protect themselves when choosing a senior care referral service.
