The Moving to Assisted Living Checklist

The Moving to Assisted Living Checklist: What to Keep in Mind During the Transition

Choosing to move into assisted living is rarely an easy decision. Some parents may resist it because they feel that it damages their pride or robs them of free will. They may be afraid to leave behind the life they've built, or may have trouble accepting the natural progression of aging -- that is, needing help with ADLs (activities of daily living). But assisted living will greatly improve their quality of life and bring them to a warm, welcoming community, in addition to 24/7 help performing ADLs, such as bathing, getting dressed, etc., that become a burden to aging people. Assisted living makes life much easier and relieves the stress that comes with home ownership. This is especially important for seniors with significant health or memory issues.

Nonetheless, helping your loved one move into assisted living will require a lot of support, both emotionally and physically. Downsizing for such a transition can be stressful, so it's important to know what can stay and what can go and to help your loved one prioritize and pack.

Assisted Living Checklist

First and foremost, get a floor plan of the new space, with measurements, so you can accurately plan how furniture and other possessions will fit.​

Create a Schedule

This process should begin weeks, if not months in advance of moving day, to minimize stress and allow time for mental processing. Make the reservations for moving vans, trucks, etc. Know when everything needs to be packed and ready to go.

Prioritize Sentimental & Cherished Possessions

Moving is one of the most stressful things in life. Keeping cherished possessions close will make for a more comfortable transition and allow for your loved one to acclimate more quickly to their new environment. If the sentimental object is too large (armoire, table, etc), see if a close friend/family member is willing to take it for safekeeping or place it in a trusted storage facility.

Some items such as kitchen appliances and other furnishings might be provided by the assisted living facility, so be sure to check before packing.

1. Gather Records

• Medical records
  
• Financial records
  
• Legal documents
  
• Miscellaneous vital records
  

2. Living Room

• TV
  
• Stereo
  
• Computer
  
• Desk
  

3. Bathroom

• Medications
• Towels & cloths
• Shower curtain
• Hair dryer
• Toiletries
• Makeup kit
• Cleaning supplies

4. Necessary Furnishings

5. Kitchenware

• Bed
  
• Desk
  
• Bedding, pillows, blankets
  
• Dresser
  
• Sofa
  
• Chair(s)
  
• Tables/nightstand
  
• Lamps/lighting
  
• Pictures/decorations
  

• Microwave
• Coffee maker
• Silverware
• Dishes & glasses
• Trash can
• Pots & pans

King-Bruwaert House provides the best amenities in an elegant, picturesque senior living community. We provide independent living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing and more. Plan a visit today to see the full scope.

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