A Step-by-Step Guide for Moving to Assisted Living

Transitioning to an assisted living community can feel overwhelming due to the extensive planning and details involved. It’s natural to feel uncertain during this process, but with the right resources and preparation, the move can be much smoother and less stressful. Read our blog on the complete guide for moving to assisted living.

If you or a loved one has already chosen an assisted living facility, you’ve made a significant step forward. The next phase is to plan and execute the move effectively. Breaking this process into manageable steps is the best approach, and we’ve compiled a comprehensive checklist to guide you through every aspect of the move.

Guide for Moving to Assisted Living Checklist

1. Addressing Healthcare Needs

Schedule a visit to the current primary care physician:

• Arrange for a check-up.
• Collect updated medical records and a current medication list.
• Complete any required health forms provided by the assisted living community.

Find a new doctor, if necessary:

• If moving to a new area, ask your current doctor for referrals or use online tools like Medicare’s physician search.
• Schedule appointments ahead of the move to ensure continuity of care.

Organize medications:

• Determine if the community accepts pre-bottled medications or requires prescriptions to be managed through their pharmacy.
• Coordinate with the community to ensure all prescriptions are prepared for move-in.

Identify other healthcare needs:

• Locate specialists, such as dentists, eye doctors, or therapists, in the new area to ensure your loved one’s health is comprehensively managed.

2. Choosing a Moving Company

Ask for recommendations:

• Assisted living communities often have preferred moving companies familiar with senior transitions.

Get detailed cost estimates:

• Compare quotes and understand what is included in the service.

Read reviews:

• Check online reviews to evaluate the reliability and customer satisfaction of potential moving companies.

Verify availability:

• Confirm that the company can accommodate your move-in date.

Ensure proper licensing and insurance:

• Verify that the company complies with all legal requirements in your state.

Specialized moving needs:

• If moving heavy furniture or medical equipment, ensure the company has the expertise to handle these items safely.

3. Efficient Packing Strategies

Consider hiring a senior move manager:

• These specialists can assist with sorting, packing, and even arranging the new living space.

Prioritize essential items:

• Focus on necessities like clothing, medications, bedding, and daily-use items.

Label belongings clearly:

• Categorize items to be moved, stored, donated, or discarded.

Safeguard valuables:

• Store family heirlooms, expensive jewelry, and important documents in a secure location.

4. Handling Logistics

Set up mail forwarding:

• Use USPS’s online service to redirect mail to the new address.

Cancel or transfer utilities:

• Schedule cancellations for utilities at the old residence and confirm arrangements at the new facility.

Notify key parties of the address change:

• Update creditors, healthcare providers, subscription services, and government agencies like Social Security.

Organize schedules and contacts:

• Add community events and important contacts to your devices for easy access.

Plan for end-of-life documents:

• Ensure estate plans, living wills, and healthcare directives are in order and shared with the community as necessary.

5. Final Preparations the Week Before

Confirm paperwork:

• Double-check with the community that all necessary forms have been submitted.

Determine contact details:

• Decide on communication methods, such as cell phones or landlines, for staying in touch.

Obtain an emergency pendant:

• Ensure your loved one has a device to summon help in case of emergencies.

Access codes and entry information:

• If the community has gated access, secure codes for family and movers and store them in an easily accessible location.

Additional Tips for a Smooth Transition

In addition to following this checklist, stay in communication with the assisted living community for specific advice or recommendations. Their experience can provide valuable insights to ensure a seamless move. By planning ahead, addressing key areas, and seeking support when needed, the transition to assisted living can become a positive and manageable experience for everyone involved.

Let’s delve into the advantages of this approach and how Willow Creek Assisted Living facilities in Centerville, Georgia, can offer peace of mind and superior care for your loved ones.