Moving can be a stressful and overwhelming experience for anyone, but it can be especially challenging for seniors.
If you have a loved one who is moving to an assisted living facility, you may be wondering how you can help them through the process. Using a moving checklist can help you plan the move so that everything can be less stressful for you and your loved one.
Here is our seniors moving checklist
Talk to your loved one about their wishes and concerns
Before you start packing boxes and arranging movers, it’s important to have a conversation with your loved one about their wants and needs for the move. Moving to an assisted living facility can be a big change, and it’s important to make sure your loved one is comfortable with the decision and has a say in the process.
Ask your loved one about their preferences for the move, such as what items they want to bring with them, what services and amenities they are interested in, and any concerns they may have. This can help you tailor the move to their needs and make the transition as smooth as possible.
Gather important documents and information
Before the move, make sure you have all the necessary documents and information in order. This may include your loved one’s identification, insurance documents, medical records, health care agent or health care directive paperwork, and power of attorney documents. You should also make a list of their medications, allergies, and any other medical conditions they have.
It’s also a good idea to make copies of all important documents, such as Power of Attorney and Health Care Directive. Your loved one can share these documents with the assisted living facility.
Downsize and declutter
One of the biggest challenges of moving to an assisted living facility is downsizing and decluttering. Assisted living facilities often have smaller living spaces than a traditional home, so it’s important to discard or donate items that your loved one no longer needs or uses.
Start by going through your loved one’s possessions and making a list of items that they want to keep, sell, donate, or throw away.
Arrange for transportation and movers
Next, you’ll need to arrange for transportation and movers to get your loved one and their belongings to the assisted living facility. If you or your family is unable to do the moving you may need to hire a professional moving company or arrange for a rental truck and ask for help.
If you’re using a moving company, be sure to research and compare different companies to find one that is reputable and affordable. Most assisted living facilities will have referrals for you to consider. You may also want to consider hiring professional packers to help with the packing process.
Pack and label boxes
Once you’ve decluttered and sorted through your loved one’s possessions, it’s time to start packing. Start by packing the items that your loved one will not need until they are settled into the assisted living facility, such as off-season clothes, extra bedding, and decorative items.
As you pack, be sure to label each box with a detailed list of its contents and the room it belongs in. This will make it easier to unpack and organize once you reach the assisted living facility.
Set up the assisted living facility
Once you arrive at the assisted living facility, it’s time to set up your loved one’s new living space. This may include arranging furniture, hanging pictures and decorations, and organizing their belongings.
Be sure to ask your loved one for their input and preferences as you help to set up their new home. Involving your loved one as much as possible can help them feel more comfortable and at home in their new surroundings.
Above all, remember that packing and moving can be stressful for people of all ages. Moving can seem overwhelming for seniors in particular and you’ll probably want to rush to get it all done. Our advice? Start planning and decluttering early! Do what you can to make the process enjoyable and exciting so that your loved one can start their new chapter with a smile.
