Senior Living Move-In Process
Everything You Need To Know: From Start to Finish
The holiday season can provide a sudden realization that your loved ones may not be capable of taking care of themselves like they used to, or that they are becoming increasingly lonely. January and February are a great time of year to start the conversations and research of senior living — especially because so many communities provide New Year incentives and discounts.
Though the transition may seem overwhelming, we have outlined the entire process step-by-step to help you begin this new stage of life.
Evaluate Your Loved Ones Needs
Are they needing help with activities of daily living?
Could they use more socialization?
Do they need care coordination?
Would a lifestyle without home maintenance or daily chores reduce their stress?
Is home maintenance more than your loved one can handle?
Do they lack access to proper nutrition?
Have you noticed changes in your loved one, mentally or physically?
Based on these answers, consider which type of senior living care would be best for them.
Independent Living is best for seniors who want to continue their independent lifestyle and need minimal to no assistance. At Canterfield, they will receive access to dining, activities, transportation, house-keeping, and maintenance-free homes.
Assisted Living is best for seniors who want to maintain an independent lifestyle but may need help with activities of daily living (dressing, bathing, eating, medication).
Memory Care is a specialized and secured unit for seniors with dementia, including Alzheimer’s. It offers structured programs with routines to create a safe, stress-free environment for seniors with ranging levels of memory loss.
Broach the Topic with Your Loved One
Approach this gingerly.
Listen to their thoughts, concerns, and emotions.
Keep the discussion focused on their needs.
Be prepared for multiple conversations.
Start Researching
Consider location & proximity to family and friends
Review pricing and insurance/medicare assistance
Look at online reviews and social media for a deeper understanding of the community
Inquire about availability, timeline, move-in incentives
Set Up A Tour
Attend an Open House or schedule a meeting with the marketing team
Tour multiple communities
Bring a list of questions
Look at all the room options that suit your needs (studio, one bedroom, two bedroom, or independent villas)
Taste the food! This will be the majority of your loved ones meals
Attend an event and meet the residents, if you can
Review Everything
Make a pros & cons list
Review pricing
Put down deposit on the senior living of your choice!
Tie Up Loose Ends
Help your loved one sell their house if necessary
Shut off all water, power, gas at the house
Redirect any mail to the Senior Living
Organize their belongings into: Keep, Donate, and Sell piles
Hire movers or ask family to help pack & transfer belongings
Settling In
The staff & neighbors will begin welcoming your loved one over the next few days
Encourage your loved one to attend events, eat with other residents, ask questions, and be open!
Visit often in the first few weeks
It’s a big change! Allow your loved one to be honest about their feelings of the change
Transitioning to senior living is a big change, but the staff at Canterfield is dedicated to assisting you through the process.
If you have any questions or concerns, reach out to our team at the location nearest you.
