1. Research assisted living facilities and evaluate options.
Researching assisted living facilities should be the first step in making a transition to assisted living. This can include contacting local social services or senior assistance agencies, researching online reviews, and arranging visits to different facilities. When evaluating potential homes, it is important to consider the size of the facility and its amenities, the level of care provided and its proximity to family and friends.
2. Transfer bank accounts, cancel subscriptions and update address information with government agencies.
Before moving, it is important to ensure that all financial accounts are up to date. This can involve transferring funds from one account to another, cancelling unnecessary subscriptions or services, updating address information and/or closing accounts. It is also important to notify government agencies, such as the Social Security Administration, Veteran’s Affairs or Medicare of the address change.
3. File a change of residence form with the post office.
Filing a change of residence form with the post office will ensure that all mail sent to the old address is forwarded to the new one. This form can also be used to stop mail delivery for a temporary period of time.
4. Schedule appointments for utility hook-ups.
If the assisted living facility does not have utilities already set up, tenants will need to arrange for electricity, water, gas and other services before moving in. It is important to contact local service providers and make the necessary arrangements.
5. Arrange delivery of furniture or appliances.
Before moving, tenants should arrange for the delivery of any necessary furniture or appliances that cannot be transported from the old location. This can involve ordering items from a store, hiring movers, or arranging for pickup/delivery services.
6. Downsize current possessions to fit available storage space in new home(s).
When moving to an assisted living facility, it is important to downsize belongings and remove any items that will not fit in the available storage space. This can involve donating or selling unnecessary items, or storing them at a family member’s home.
7. Seek medical advice from primary care provider if needed.
If tenants are using assisted living as part of their overall healthcare plan, it is important to speak to a primary care provider before making the move. This will ensure that all necessary medications and treatments are in place and that any changes in lifestyle or routine can be taken into account.
8. Set up mail forwarding services.
After filing a change of residence form with the post office, tenants should set up mail forwarding services. This will ensure that all important documents sent to the old address are forwarded to the new one in a timely manner.
9. Confirm insurance coverage including Medicare/Medicaid eligibility at new facility.
Before making the move, tenants should confirm that their insurance coverage is valid and accepted by the assisted living facility. In addition to traditional medical insurance, Medicare/ Medicaid may cover some of the costs associated with an assisted living arrangement.
10. Obtain copies of important documents such as wills, birth certificates and marriage licenses before moving.
Finally, it is important to obtain copies of important documents such as birth certificates and marriage licenses before making the move. This will ensure that all necessary paperwork is in place for any legal matters that may arise during the transition. Protection of important documents is highly recommended. Documents should be stored in a safe place or placed with a trusted family member during the move. Additionally, any items of value should be insured for protection against theft or damage.