Moving to Assisted Living: Guidance from Senior Living Professionals

As your parents or loved ones age, it’s natural to worry about their futures and well-being. You want to make sure your elderly loved ones are well cared for while enjoying a high quality of life. While assisted living can be a difficult topic to broach, it’s a conversation worth starting. 

If the answers to any of these questions are yes, moving into assisted living may greatly benefit your loved one. 

• Are you noticing a decline in hygiene and cleanliness? 
• Are you concerned for their safety or health?
• Does your loved one need assistance with activities of daily living?
• Does your loved one suffer from social isolation? 

If you answered yes to one or more of these questions, moving into assisted living would be greatly beneficial to them. Many assisted living communities also offer memory care services for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or a different form of dementia. 

You should never move mom to assisted living against her will, nor expect this to be a one-time conversation. Be prepared to broach this subject gently multiple times and give your aging parent(s) the time and space they need to express their concerns and feelings. Our senior living professionals have compiled the following guide to assist you in navigating difficult conversations about assisted living.

Addressing Fears of Assisted Living

Loss of Independence  

Assisted living is designed to empower independence, not take it away. Residents manage their own schedules and participate in activities by choice, receiving support only when requested or needed.

Feeling “Placed” Somewhere

Your new space is truly yours. From choosing the perfect floor plan to decorating with your own furniture and mementos, these apartments are designed to feel like home, complete with kitchenettes and private living areas.

Isolation from Family

Our doors are always open. Family and friends are encouraged to visit at any time and are frequently invited to join community events and celebrations.

Financial Uncertainty

Senior living should be transparent. Most communities offer clear financial breakdowns and can help you navigate options like long-term care insurance to ensure costs are manageable.

Moving to Assisted Living Checklist

What does your loved one need to do or bring when moving into an assisted living community? Downsizing from a family home to a smaller apartment or studio can be an overwhelming process. To aid you in this process, our senior living professionals have written these checklists. 

Phase 1: Planning & Downsizing

Before you start packing boxes, take these strategic steps to ensure everything fits comfortably in the new space.

• [ ] Review the Floor Plan: Obtain a detailed layout of the new apartment or studio, including specific wall and window measurements.
• [ ] Map Out Furniture: Using the measurements, decide which favorite pieces of furniture will fit without crowding the room.
• [ ] Audit Community Services: Research what the community provides. If they offer restaurant-style dining or meal delivery, you can likely leave the heavy cookware and small appliances behind.
• [ ] Enlist a Support System: Don’t do it alone. Reach out to family, friends, or professional senior move managers to help with the heavy lifting and emotional decisions.

Phase 2: Packing the Essentials

Focus on items that provide comfort, safety, and a sense of “home.”

• [ ] Personal Touches: Photos, favorite wall art, and cherished mementos.
• [ ] Clothing: A week’s worth of comfortable, weather-appropriate outfits and easy-to-fasten shoes.
• [ ] Toiletries & Meds: A 30-day supply of medications and daily hygiene essentials.
• [ ] Basic Tech: A phone, tablet, or e-reader to stay connected with loved ones.

Remember, you aren’t just moving into a building; you’re joining a community. On moving day, the assisted living staff and fellow residents will be ready to welcome you and your loved one with open arms.

Take this process one step at a time, and enlist all the help you can.

Consider Chelsea Senior Living

At Chelsea Senior Living, we believe every resident deserves to live every moment to the fullest. Whether it’s exploring a new hobby or enjoying a quiet morning, we are here to support your loved one as they unlock the excitement of this new chapter.

With premium amenities, personalized services, and vibrant activities just steps from every apartment, your new community is waiting.

Schedule a tour today, where you will visit our beautiful campus, meet our friendly staff, and chat with the residents who call Chelsea home.