Once you’ve chosen to relocate a loved one to an assisted living complex, the next step is to make arrangements for the actual move-in day of the resident.
When you approach the move with the appropriate resources and help, you can make it significantly less stressful.
Older adults who move to assisted living communities frequently downsize from their primary residence. There are many things to keep in mind when you’re preparing for the next chapter of your life. Your transfer will go a lot more smoothly if you follow the following tips.
Seasons Retirement offers a pleasant, comfortable sensation of being at home by balancing attractive lodgings with a vibrant ambiance with the warmth and comfort of home.
Requirements For Moving Into An Assisted Living Community
The first step in preparing for a relocation is to inquire about the assisted living apartment’s dimensions or floor layout. You’ll then be able to estimate the amount of furniture and storage space needed for required items.
This helps to streamline the packing process, allowing you more informed judgments about what to bring with you on moving day. Keeping in mind that although personal belongings such as trinkets and photographs are encouraged to brighten up the living area, there would be fewer places to exhibit them.
Decoration And Furniture
- Although a bed may seem like an easy choice, keep in mind that this could also be an excellent opportunity to purchase a new mattress and box springs.
- It is essential to have a couch or a couple of chairs for visitors. If you’ve had a small living space, a couch bed can be a good option.
- Even collapsible chairs that can be stowed away and taken out in a rush might be suitable in some circumstances.
- A bedside cabinet of drawers for storing your clothing.
- The majority of assisted living complexes include cable television as part of their monthly price structure. If you’ve been using the same television for several years, you might consider updating it.
- Smart TVs are more affordable now than they were a few years ago, and smart TVs are quite intuitive and simple to operate, even for older people.
Clothing
- In many assisted living communities, you may notice that people dress a little more professionally for meals and activities.
- You would need comfortable outfits for daily living.
- If you live in a climate with seasons, you will need to dress in warm clothes. And, on chilly days, fine apparel is required for outings to stay warm.
- Remember to bring a hat and gloves, as well as rainwear and an umbrella.
Personal Care And Hygiene Products
Choosing which personal belongings to carry can be difficult because you may have strong feelings for a large variety of goods. Pack only the things you absolutely need; if there is room afterward, you may always add more items if you need them.
- Medical supplies are to be brought, including prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs.
- Toothbrushes, toothpaste, combs, brushes, nail-care goods, soap, towels, bath towels, perfume, and toilet paper, among other things, are essential.
- A few extra sets of linens and pillowcases, as well as a couple of bedsheets (one for the summer and another that is heavier for the winter).
Moving To The Assisted Living Community: A Macro Checklist
When one has determined that it is time to move into an assisted living community, there are various actions you must take to prepare for the move.
Be Careful In Making Your Selection Of A Community
You should spend some time looking into and touring assisted living communities in your neighbourhood. This will allow you to better understand each site’s living arrangements, meal options, amenities, and general feel.
It’s better to begin your studies as soon as possible before you have a pressing need to relocate because you’ll be prepared to take your time with the decision.
Packing Should Be Efficient And Deliverable
In the first instance, inquire with members of your community and see whether they provide packaging services. To make moving to assisted living as easy as possible, enlisting the aid of a professional is highly recommended. Make use of the services of a reputable and fully insured moving company. Most movers will pack your belongings for you if you pay them enough.
- Make a priority list of the most necessary items to pack initially, and don’t feel pressured to do everything at once.
- Begin with necessities such as toiletries, prescriptions, clothing, bedding, and furniture, and work your way up from there.
- After you’ve taken care of the large items, you may go on to the small items that may still be significant.
Ensure That All Logistical And “Housekeeping” Items Are Taken Care Of
Regardless of whether you’re moving to an assisted living community or somewhere else, there is a slew of logistics to consider. Plan for the cancellation of ongoing services such as cable, internet, and utilities that will be offered at the new retirement community. It’s also a good idea to ask for assistance from your community since they may be able to provide logistical help.
Make Sure Your House Is Safe
If your home will be vacant while you sell it or make other arrangements, ensure that it is protected from intruders. Make sure you don’t leave anything of value or personally identifiable information in the house. These valuables can also be kept with a relative for safekeeping.
Final Words
Preparing an older adult to move into their new assisted living community is a big life change. Therefore, helping the individual adjust to their new circumstances is essential, even if they are apprehensive about the transfer.
To achieve this, it is necessary to ensure that your loved one has already been introduced to the staff and the people already living in the assisted living community. Taking them on a tour of the site and helping them get to know their new surroundings can also help them adjust.
