Moving into an assisted living residence is a complicated transition. This list provides some of the questions you should ask yourself, as well as the preparations necessary to make the transition successful.

1) Privacy. It’s is a major concern. Even though you will share a roof with many new people, you have the privacy of your own apartment. Friends and family can visit you, but you decide when. Keep in mind that living with your contemporaries will be beneficial, but you are allowed as much privacy as you wish.

2) Things you’ll take with you. While it will be difficult to scale down, it is important that you don’t make things more difficult by overburdening yourself. Be sure to view the residence prior to moving so you can have a good idea of how much space there it. This will also help you decide which, if any, furniture to take. It is important to begin packing long before the moving day. This way you can make arrangements for family and friends to care for the possession you do not take with you.

3) Moving Day. Most residences have staff available to help you move. Also, friends and family are always good help. Be sure to check with the residence before you move so that staff is available help you. Although staff, family members, and friends are there to help you, it is important that you decide how your apartment is arranged.  Remember, arranging your apartment to suit your preferences will make your adjustment easier.

4) The emotional transition. This can be the most challenging. Residents say that only time helps you adjust. It is important to stay busy, get involved in the activities and introduce yourself to other residents. If you feel inclined, speaking with a member of your church, and friends and family, always give you the comforts of home that you need.

* Read as much about the facility as you can before you move.

* Meet the staff before you move.

* Review paperwork and contract before you move in.

* Pack according to your new home. Don’t overdo it by trying to bring everything.

* Review a list of the residence’s policies.

* Familiarize yourself with the activity schedule.

This entry was posted on Friday, July 3rd, 2009 at 10:55 am and is filed under Advice, Assisted Living Lifestyle, Culture, News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.