Preparing Your Parent for Assisted Living: A 30-Day Step-by-Step Plan

Moving a loved one into assisted living is a major life change—not just for them, but for the entire family. While this transition can feel overwhelming, careful preparation can make the process smoother and less stressful.

To make it easier, we’ve created a 30-day step-by-step plan to help you and your loved one prepare for the move to assisted living.

Week 1: Lay the Foundation

The first week is about setting expectations, having open conversations, and beginning the logistical process of the transition.

Day 1-3: Have an Honest Conversation

• Sit down with your parent and openly discuss the upcoming move.
• Acknowledge their concerns, fears, and emotions.
• Reassure them that they are not losing independence but gaining a supportive community.

Day 4-5: Visit the Assisted Living Community Again

• If possible, tour the community again with your parent so they can become familiar with the staff and residents.
• Arrange for them to attend a meal or activity to help them feel more comfortable.

Day 6-7: Review the Paperwork & Finances

• Go over contracts, policies, and financial details to avoid surprises.
• Ensure the facility has all necessary medical and insurance information.
• Discuss a move-in date with the assisted living staff.

Week 2: Decluttering & Downsizing

Assisted living apartments are often smaller than a senior’s current home, meaning downsizing is necessary. This week should focus on deciding what to bring and what to let go of.

Day 8-10: Make a “Must-Keep” List

• Help your parent identify the essential belongings they want to take.
• Prioritize sentimental items, daily-use furniture, and favorite clothing.

Day 11-12: Start Sorting & Packing

• Use three categories: Keep, Donate, Store.
• If letting go of certain items is emotional, take photos of sentimental objects for memories.
• Involve family members in the sorting process to make it easier.

Day 13-14: Sell or Donate Unneeded Items

• Arrange for donation pickups (Goodwill, Habitat for Humanity, local charities).
• Host a small estate sale or sell valuable items online if needed.
• Ensure all paperwork, keys, and financial records are organized before packing begins.

Week 3: Preparing for Moving Day

Day 15-17: Personalize Their New Space

• Visit the community again and take measurements of the new apartment.
• Create a floor plan with your parent to decide furniture placement.
• Ask staff what decorations and small appliances are allowed.

Day 18-19: Transfer Medical & Mail Information

• Notify doctors and pharmacists about the change of address.
• Transfer prescriptions to the assisted living facility’s preferred pharmacy.
• Update mailing addresses for bank statements, Social Security, insurance, etc.

Day 20-21: Arrange the Moving Process

• Decide if you’ll hire movers or handle the move with family.
• Label all boxes and keep essentials easily accessible.
• Schedule a moving date and time with the facility.

Week 4: Making the Transition Smooth

Day 22-23: Pack an “Essentials” Bag

• Include medications, important documents, comfortable clothes, toiletries, and sentimental keepsakes for the first few days.
• Add a few favorite snacks and comfort items (such as a cozy blanket or favorite book).

Day 24-25: Plan for Moving Day Support

• Ask family members or friends to help with the move.
• Assign someone to handle paperwork while others focus on setting up the apartment.
• Plan a special farewell at the old home to provide closure.

Day 26: Moving Day!

• Keep the atmosphere positive and supportive.
• Let your parent take breaks as needed.
• Set up their space with familiar items first (bedspread, photos, favorite chair).

Day 27-28: Encourage Socializing

• Help them meet neighbors and attend an activity or meal in the common area.
• Stay for a few hours, but avoid prolonged goodbyes—this can make the transition harder.
• Let staff take over to help establish new routines.

Day 29-30: Follow Up & Stay Connected

• Visit or call to check in without overwhelming them.
• Encourage participation in community activities to make friends.
• Monitor their adjustment and talk to staff about any concerns.

Moving a parent to assisted living is a big step, but with the right preparation, it can be a positive and empowering experience. At Senior Living Specialists, we’re here to guide you to find the right assisted living community.