Author: Alicia Centeno
Reviewed By: Catherine Braxton
You prepare for a move to assisted living by learning as much as you can about the community, packing properly and taking care of logistics beforehand. Whether you’re making the move from your own home or relocating from an independent living level of care, the transition to assisted living can be challenging.
If you follow a few helpful steps, however, you can enjoy a smoother move every step of the way. You’ve already devoted significant time and attention to finding the assisted living community that’s right for you; these steps will help you acclimate to your new environment and make it feel like home.
Learn as much as you can about the assisted living communities you are considering moving to by asking questions and taking in-person tours to see the facilities up close. During the tours, pay close attention to the meals, activities and amenities so you can find the community that truly feels like home. You’ll get a good sense of what life is like just by being present, and you’ll meet staff members and residents along the way.
You can also ask questions while there. How large is it? Is staff on-site 24 hours? Which activities are scheduled, and which amenities are available? Assisted living communities range widely in scope, so always choose the one that feels right to you. If you prefer a small, close-knit community, for instance, moving into a luxury high-rise would not be the best fit.
If you’re transitioning to an assisted living community from your own home, it’s a wise idea to tackle logistical items a few weeks or months in advance. These include selling your home, canceling utility bills for electricity, gas and water and updating your mailing address to reflect your new home. Once you’ve moved everything in and are acclimating to your new home, you’ll be grateful that you took care of your previous bills and won’t have to worry about your mail going to the wrong place.
Packing for assisted living is different from packing for a new home, so plan on downsizing. Leave larger items and furniture behind while focusing on personal items you enjoy or need. Moving checklist must-haves include clothing, accessories, bedding, knickknacks, toiletries and medication. Since you can decorate your own room in many assisted living communities, smaller pieces of furniture, artwork, heirlooms and family photos are usually appropriate to bring.
