10 Things to Do When Moving into Assisted Living
Moving into assisted living is a life-altering and emotional decision that involves numerous considerations and the heavy burden of ensuring loved ones receive the care they deserve. By following this checklist, you’ll get through the preparation and planning stages and alleviate the stress of moving.
Determining Preferences and Needs
When preparing to move into senior assisted living, the first and most important step is to assess your family member’s preferences and needs, including their daily routine, dietary restrictions, medical requirements, and lifestyle. Acknowledging these factors may help families choose communities that meet their loved ones’ needs.
Researching Senior Communities
Next, take time to research the area’s assisted living communities. Consider cost, amenities, location, staff experience, and residents’ reviews. Visit each community to understand the environment and allow your loved one to voice any concerns.
Setting a Budget
Moving into senior living is a significant expense, and budgeting is essential. When creating a budget, consider monthly fees and costs like transportation, personal care assistance, and medication management. Setting a budget and following it helps families narrow their options and avoid future financial stress.
Planning to Downsize
Transitioning to assisted living sometimes means downsizing from a more spacious home. Moving is a challenge even under the best of circumstances, and planning matters. Before the big day, list essential items your family member may need and consider selling or donating non-essential belongings.
Coordinating With Senior Care Providers
As you prepare for the move into assisted living, keep your loved one’s providers informed. Get copies of prescriptions and medical records before moving and discuss medication management and necessary accommodations with doctors and community staff.
Preparing for Emotional Shifts
Moving into senior living is emotionally taxing for residents and their families. By having honest and open conversations, asking for help when needed, and keeping other family members involved, you’ll make the process less stressful for everyone.
Planning and Logistics
The logistics of moving are overwhelming, and planning is an essential stress reducer. Hiring a moving crew, packing a kit with move-in essentials, and coordinating transportation for your senior loved one will make the move smoother.
Creating a Personalized Care Plan
Everyone has different needs, and creating an individualized care plan with the community’s care team is crucial. Care plans should include dietary restrictions, activity preferences, medication management, and other requirements or requests.
Settling Into the Community
After moving into assisted living, you’ll help your senior loved one get settled into their home. Talk to them regularly about their experiences in the community, and ensure they feel heard, seen, and validated in their environment. By addressing concerns as they arise, you’ll keep small issues from turning into big problems.
Focusing on the Positives of Moving into Assisted Living
Moving into assisted living is a major transition, but it improves seniors’ quality of life. All their worries about housekeeping, lawn care, cleaning, and cooking are eliminated, and they can live the carefree lifestyle they deserve.
Taking the First Step Toward a Worry-Free Life
The decision to move into senior living isn’t an easy one, but following this checklist will make it less stressful. To learn more about our warm, welcoming, and vibrant community, visit our website and fill out the online contact form or call to schedule a tour.
