Making the move to assisted living is a major life change. Whether you’re preparing for the move yourself or helping a loved one, the best way to ensure a seamless transition is to plan ahead so you can be confident and ready for moving day.
The good news is you can break this process into small tasks so you can stay motivated as you move into your new community. This easy-to-follow moving to assisted living checklist will help you navigate each step of the way so you can stay organized and stress-free.
The Best Tips for Downsizing and Packing
The first part of the moving process will be choosing what items will go to your new assisted living apartment. To break this down, follow these simple steps:
Streamline Your Belongings
The first step is decluttering your home. As you go through each item, identify items to keep, donate or sell. Since this is a large task, reach out to family and friends to help you with this process.
When you streamline your belongings, you’re doing your future self a favor as this will save time with packing. You’ll also enjoy the benefits of rightsizing – having items that you need and love in your space without looking at clutter can bring great peace of mind – and it’s only a snapshot of how you’ll feel in your apartment.
If you would like to start thinking about your apartment setup, use your floor plan to get an idea of the space and how to make the most of it. You may find that your favorite area rug will fit perfectly in your bedroom. Tip: Decluttering takes time. Start the downsizing process early so you don’t feel pressured or overwhelmed.
Create a Packing Plan
Develop a systematic packing plan to keep everything organized. One easy tip is to pack by room and label the box accordingly, like “Dining Room,” “Living Room” and “Bedroom.”
As you’re moving in the boxes, you can place the box in the correct room to make moving day easier. Tip: You can also pack a separate bag of personal items to take with you during the move. This way, you will have easy access to a change of clothes, pajamas and toiletries.
Seek Professional Help
Consider contacting your community’s move-in coordinator to assist with your move. They can provide valuable support in packing, transporting and unpacking your belongings, easing the burden on you and your loved ones. Tip: Your community is excited to welcome you. Reach out to the community to learn about their resources and support to help your move be as easy as possible.
How To Plan Moving Day Logistics
When you’re moving into a community, make sure you also take care of these items so you can focus on enjoying your new apartment.
Notify Relevant Parties
Inform utility companies, the post office, and other relevant parties about your upcoming move. This ensures a smooth transition and avoids any disruptions to essential services.
Plan Transportation
Coordinate transportation logistics well in advance. Whether your community’s move-in coordinator has assisted you with hiring a moving company or you’re relying on family and friends, having a solid transportation plan is crucial for a successful move.
How Emotional Support Is Essential
Moving is an emotional process. It’s common to feel a mix of everything – and having emotional support systems in place is important so you always have someone to talk to.
Communicate With Family Members
Maintain open communication with family members and friends throughout the moving process. Sharing your feelings and concerns can provide emotional support and strengthen your connection with loved ones.
Connect With Your Assisted Living Community
Engage with your new assisted living community before the move. Attend social events and connect with future neighbors to build a support system and ease the emotional aspects of transitioning to a new environment.
By the time you’re moving into your apartment, you could already have a group of friends waiting for you in the community dining room.
Consider Professional Counseling
If the emotional aspects of moving become overwhelming, consider seeking professional counseling or therapy. A mental health professional can offer guidance and support during this challenging time.
Navigating the Moving Adjustment Period
After move-in day, it’s going to take some time for you to find your new normal. As you establish friendships, get used to your schedule, and learn about all the exciting opportunities at your community, you’ll find your stride in no time.
Give Yourself Time To Adjust
Understand that adjusting to a new living arrangement takes time. Be patient with yourself and allow for a period of adaptation. Embrace the opportunity to explore and enjoy your new surroundings. Tip: Give yourself grace and continue to lean on your emotional support systems when you need to.
Participate in Activities
Engage in socialization activities and events offered by the assisted living community. This not only helps you acclimate to your new lifestyle but also provides opportunities to meet new friends and build a sense of community. Tip: Grow your social circle – make breakfast plans, meet your neighbors, and you’ll quickly find that you have something fun to look forward to each day.
Stay Connected With Loved Ones
Maintain regular contact with family and friends, whether through visits, calls or video chats. Staying connected with your support network can alleviate feelings of loneliness and contribute to a positive adjustment period. Tip: Schedule regular visits or video chats so your family stays up to date on how you’re doing.
With the moving to assisted living checklist to empower and prepare you for your transition to assisted living, you’ll have the support you need to gracefully adapt to this new chapter in life.
Discover Assisted Living at Allerton House Hingham
Planning for your move into assisted living can help make the transition easier. At Allerton House Hingham, we’ll do everything we can to make you feel welcome in your new home – starting with what you should bring. Give us a call today at 781-486-3040 to schedule a tour.