Many families get trapped in a difficult cycle: They’re exhausted from caring for an aging parent but afraid to make a change. This indecision can last for months or even years. But if you ask the right questions and use the right tools, the confusion disappears and you can move forward with confidence.
If your family is caught in that cycle, no worries: The Philomena caregiving team will tell you everything your family needs to know. Our organized plan can be the foundation for your path forward.
The guiding principle? We believe in making checklists and turn to them time and time again.
Let’s Create Your Assisted Living Moving Checklist
Begin your preparation at least two months before moving day with this comprehensive checklist:
Two to Three Months Before Move-In:
- Schedule tours of potential assisted living communities.
- Narrow your choices down based on care needs, budget, and location preferences.
- Select your preferred community and coordinate the move-in date.
- Align the move-in date with your loved one’s current housing arrangements.
Six Weeks Before Move-In:
- Document important deadlines for notifying landlords or listing a property for sale.
- Create a timeline disconnecting utilities at the current property. Communities like The Philomena include utilities in the monthly fees.
- Begin the process of updating your mailing address with relevant organizations.
- Choose a moving company.
- Inform your loved one’s health care team of the move.
Those steps prevent last-minute stress and ensure every necessary box is checked during this major life change.
We also suggest prepping a list of questions to have ready for those tours.
Essential Questions to Ask on an Assisted Living Tour
Your assisted living questions should cover every aspect of daily life and care. Don’t be shy, and dig deeper when you need clarification.
Team Member and Care Questions:
- What are the caregiver-to-resident ratios during different shifts?
- How does the community manage medication administration?
- What procedures are in place for handling medical emergencies?
- What training do team members receive?
- What is the average turnover rate?
Dining and Meal Service Questions:
- What meal options are available each day?
- How does the community accommodate special dietary needs?
- Can residents eat meals in their apartments if they prefer?
Daily Life and Activities Questions:
- What on-site amenities do you have (fitness center, movie theater, etc)?
- What transportation services does the community provide?
- Do you have senior-friendly activity programming?
- How does the community communicate updates with families?
Pay attention: The answers will reveal the true nature of care and community culture.
Financial and Legal Considerations
Before signing any agreements, have a clear understanding of the application process and cost structure. Monthly fees typically cover room and board, but communities charge additional fees for specific services. Review contracts carefully and clarify all of the billing practices and rate policies. This financial clarity prevents surprises and helps families budget appropriately.
What to Pack When Moving to Assisted Living
Downsizing from a house to an apartment requires careful consideration, so our third checklist covers what to bring to assisted living:
- Bed: Confirm whether the community provides one or allows residents to bring their own.
- Bed Linens and Cozy Blankets: Soft sheets, favorite pillows, and warm blankets.
- Medications and Medical Records: Current prescriptions, a list of medications with dosages, and recent medical documents.
- Personal Identification and Legal Documents: Driver’s license, insurance cards, power of attorney papers, and advance directives.
- Comfortable Clothing for All Seasons: Label each item with your loved one’s name.
- Cherished Photographs and Mementos: Family photos and other meaningful keepsakes.
- Toiletries and Personal Care Items: Preferred brands of shampoo, soap, lotion, and grooming supplies.
- Eyeglasses, Hearing Aids, and Assistive Devices: Include extra batteries, cleaning supplies, and cases.
- A Favorite Chair or Small Furniture Piece: One beloved item can transform a standard room into a personalized space (check size restrictions first).
- Entertainment and Hobby Supplies: Books, puzzles, craft materials, or a tablet loaded with favorite shows.
- Appropriate Footwear: Non-slip shoes and slippers with good support.
Knowing what to pack when moving to assisted living means your loved one has everything they need, without bringing unnecessary items.
The Philomena offers luxurious, maintenance-free apartments with studio and one-bedroom options — we encourage new residents to personalize their space for comfortable living.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should we start planning for the move?
Begin researching communities and creating your assisted living moving question checklist two to three months before you anticipate needing care.
Can residents bring furniture and personal items?
Most communities encourage residents to personalize their apartments with familiar furniture and belongings. Plan furniture arrangements before moving day so that everything fits comfortably.
What happens if care needs increase over time?
The Philomena team members assess residents regularly and adjust care plans as needs change. We also offer memory care on our campus, enabling residents to age in place without relocating again.
Bringing It All Together
In summary, our assisted moving checklists help families approach this transition with confidence rather than fear. The time invested in research, asking the right questions, and thorough preparation pays dividends in your loved one’s happiness and adjustment to their new home.
Have More Assisted Living Questions?
The Philomena Has Answers
Our compassionate, experienced team members know that moving to assisted living is about more than just a change of address. At The Philomena, seniors feel at home immediately, enjoying their comfortable, supportive lifestyle on day one. Contact us to schedule your tour; we have the answers you’re looking for.
