How to Make the Transition From Home to Assisted Living

Moving from your home to an assisted-living facility can be a daunting task, both physically and emotionally. According to the American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living, the key to a successful transition is preparation. Do not hesitate to call the administrator or director of the assisted-living facility with questions, as she has experience assisting new residents and wants you to feel comfortable in your new home. Although you may not know exactly what to expect before you move in, planning ahead and knowing how to approach the situation will allow for a smoother transition from your home to the assisted-living facility.

Things You'll Need

• Contract, policies and paperwork
• Tape measure
• Camera
• Storage unit
• Permanent marker or label maker
• Staff, family or friends to assist
• Social worker or clergy (optional)

Instructions

1. Read all of the materials you were given about the assisted-living facility. Look over your contract and the facility policies so you can ask any questions before you move in.

2. Decide what items you will bring to your new room or apartment. Try to see your new room before you move. Take measurements, and include the closets and storage space. It may be helpful to take pictures of your new room for reference.

3. Plan to bring small prized possessions with you so that you feel "at home." Put items in storage or have family keep them in case you change your mind later. If some of your possessions have monetary value and you do not feel comfortable keeping them in your room, speak with the administrator about on-site safe storage.

4. Label your clothes if they will be laundered at the assisted-living facility. Do not bring too many articles of clothing, as the closets will most likely be small.

5. Find out who will be there to help you on moving day. Staff will usually assist, and you may want you family members and friends to help. However, you should be the one who decides where things go, since you are the one who will be living there.

6. Provide the facility with written information about you so that staff can better help you adjust. Tell them about your diet, mobility, personal care needs, your former living conditions, religion, habits and practices, and special interests.

7. Stay busy by talking to staff and other residents when you first move in. The best way to become comfortable with your new home is to leave your room.

8. Give yourself time to adjust. Establishing a new routine may be difficult at first, so try to be patient. The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living recommends talking with other residents about their transition into assisted living, as they may have words of wisdom to share.

9. Talk to the administrator, social worker or clergy staff if you are having a difficult time adjusting, as they may be able to provide insight.

Tips & Warnings

• If possible, have family help you pack and be there on moving day.

• Do not over-pack, as your new room will probably be small.

References

• American Health Care Association: Making the Transition to a Nursing Facility Life
• American Health Care Association: Moving Into an Assisted Living Residence