Planning to move to assisted living is an important step and involves several considerations to ensure a smooth transition. Here’s a general plan you can follow:
1. Assess Your Needs
- Evaluate Your Health & Care Needs: Determine what level of care you need (e.g., help with daily activities, medication management, memory care).
- Talk to Your Doctor: Consult with your doctor to get recommendations for the level of care and any specific medical needs you may have.
- Financial Assessment: Consider your financial situation and how you will pay for assisted living (savings, insurance, government assistance programs like Medicaid).
- Consult with a Senior Housing Advisor Speaking with an expert in assisted living can help provide insight about the options and simplify the process.
2. Research Assisted Living Options
- Location: Choose locations that are convenient for family and friends to visit. Consider proximity to healthcare services.
- Facilities & Services: Look at the amenities offered (e.g., meals, housekeeping, social activities, transportation, personal care).
- Quality of Care: Research the reputation of facilities, including reviews, ratings, and any inspection reports.
- Cost: Get a breakdown of costs to understand what is included in the price and what extra services may cost.
3. Create a Timeline
- Set a Move-In Date: Once you’ve chosen a facility, work with them to establish a date for your move.
- Start Preparing Early: Begin the process of downsizing, organizing, and sorting your belongings well in advance.
- Notify Necessary Parties: Inform your family, doctor, financial planner, and any relevant institutions (e.g., utility companies) about your move.
4. Downsize & Organize Belongings
- Declutter: Sort through your possessions and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or throw away. Assisted living spaces are typically smaller, so you’ll need to downsize.
- Pack: Start packing a few weeks ahead of time. Consider taking items that are important to you but keep the space practical and simple.
- Label Items: If you have family or friends helping, label boxes clearly to make the unpacking process easier.
5. Arrange Transportation
- Moving Service: If you need help with the actual move, look into hiring a professional moving company that specializes in senior moves.
- Family Support: You may also want to involve family members or friends for physical support and emotional comfort during the move.
6. Finalize Financial & Legal Matters
- Review Insurance: Double-check that your health insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid plan covers assisted living costs if applicable.
- Update Legal Documents: Ensure that important legal documents, like your will, power of attorney, and health care proxy, are updated.
- Financial Planning: Work with a financial planner to ensure you can afford the move and ongoing living expenses.
7. Prepare for Emotional Transition
- Talk About Your Feelings: Moving to assisted living can be an emotional experience. Talk with your family or a counselor to work through any concerns or anxieties you may have.
- Visit the Facility: Spend time in the assisted living community before the move to get familiar with the environment and meet staff and residents.
- Stay Connected: Plan regular visits with family and friends to maintain your social connections.
8. Move-in Day
- Settle In Slowly: Take your time unpacking and setting up your space in your new room or apartment. Bring familiar items to make it feel more like home.
- Meet the Staff: Introduce yourself to the staff and other residents. This will help you feel more comfortable in the new setting.
- Stay Open to New Experiences: While the transition can be difficult, remain open to the opportunities and social activities available at the facility.
9. Ongoing Communication
- Stay in Touch: Regularly communicate with family and friends to keep them updated on how you’re doing.
- Advocate for Yourself: If any of your care needs change or if you have concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to the staff.
By planning ahead and being proactive, the transition to assisted living can be a positive experience that helps you feel supported and cared for.