Making the Move to Assisted Living
Published on February 26, 2025.
Modern assisted living communities offer older adults a balance of independence, support, and social engagement. While the decision to move can be emotional, careful planning can help ensure a smooth transition. From selecting the right community to downsizing and settling in, here’s what to expect and how to prepare for this significant life change.
Choosing an assisted living facility
Finding the right assisted living facility is the first and most important step. This process often begins months before the actual move, as families and individuals consider various options. Consider what factors are most important to you or a loved one. Is it important to be near friends and family, or are you more concerned with a place that offers a lot of amenities? Location, levels of care, amenities, and cost can all play a role in the decision. Some families tour several communities before making a choice, while others rely on recommendations from doctors or senior care advisors.
Beyond logistics, it’s also important to consider how a place feels. A welcoming atmosphere, friendly staff, and a strong sense of community can make a significant difference in adjusting to a new home. Once a decision is made, the facility may require a medical assessment to ensure that the level of care aligns with the resident’s needs. Some places have immediate availability, while others may have a waitlist, which can extend the timeline for the move.
Preparing for the move
As exciting as it is to think of never mowing another lawn or taking out the trash again, leaving a home that you’ve spent a significant amount of time in is one of the biggest challenges of moving into assisted living. Downsizing can be an emotionally and physically difficult process. Many older adults are transitioning from a lifelong home filled with memories, and the process of sorting through possessions can bring up a lot of feelings. However lovely your future assisted living apartment is, it won’t likely have space for an entire lifetime’s worth of possessions.
One approach is to take the process room by room, deciding what to bring, what to pass down to family, and what to donate. Special care should be given to sentimental items—things that hold meaning but may not be practical in a smaller space. Measuring the new living area ahead of time can help determine what furniture and personal belongings will fit comfortably.
Some families choose to hire professional organizers or senior move managers to assist with this process, especially when time is limited. Others find that involving loved ones in packing and sorting makes the experience more manageable. Regardless of the approach, downsizing takes time and is best started at least a month or two before moving day. The staff at your future assisted living community are well-informed about this process and may be able to give you recommendations for professionals to assist in the downsizing and moving process.
Handling logistics
Once the move-in date is set, there are several logistical steps to take care of. This includes canceling or transferring utilities, updating mailing addresses, and ensuring that important documents—such as medical records, insurance policies, and legal paperwork—are in order. Many families also schedule visits to doctors or specialists before the move to address any medical concerns in advance.
Packing for assisted living should focus on practicality and comfort. Clothing for different seasons, toiletries, medications, and a few cherished home items can help make the new space feel more familiar. Many facilities encourage residents to personalize their rooms with family photos, artwork, and small decorations.
Moving day itself can be an emotional experience. It may help to arrive earlier in the day to allow time for settling in before evening routines begin. Some assisted living communities host welcome events or pair new residents with ambassadors to help them adjust. While the first few days may feel overwhelming, making an effort to engage in social activities can ease the transition.
The process of truly feeling at home in an assisted living community varies for each individual. Some adjust quickly, while others take several weeks to settle into their new routine. Regular visits from family and friends can provide comfort, as can getting involved in activities, dining with new neighbors, and exploring the available amenities.
Though the decision to move into assisted living is a significant one, it marks the beginning of a new phase filled with opportunities for connection, care, and peace of mind. With thoughtful preparation and support, this transition can be made with confidence, ensuring a smooth and positive experience.
The assisted living community at Richmond Heights Senior Living in Ohio offers a vibrant and fulfilling lifestyle where residents receive the support they need in a welcoming and warm environment. Contact us today to take a tour and experience the community firsthand.