10 Things You Didn't Know You Needed to Do Before Mom Moves Into Assisted Living

You’ve chosen the community and set a date. Now comes the part no one tells you about. Here are ten things families often forget. Your MoveMyMom Advisor can help with every step, and our help is always at no cost to families.

Talk to your MoveMyMom Advisor

📞 877-575-9900

1. Get the floor plan

Measure the new apartment before you decide what furniture comes along. A senior move manager can draw a floor plan and talk Mom through what will fit, so that conversation doesn’t fall on you. If family members don’t agree on what goes, read how a senior move manager can ease family tension.

2. Ask for the community's move-in rules

Many communities ask for a scheduled move time, an elevator reservation if there’s an elevator, and a certificate of insurance from the mover.

3. Update Mom's mailing address

Set up mail forwarding with the post office, and update her bank, Social Security, and other accounts.

4. Transfer prescriptions

Ask the community how medications are handled. Some use a specific pharmacy.

5. Gather medical paperwork

Florida requires a medical exam for new assisted living residents, done shortly before or soon after move-in. Ask the community which form it uses and when it needs it.

6. Label everything

Label clothing, glasses, hearing aids, and dentures with Mom’s name.

7. Plan the first night

Pack a bag with medications, pajamas, toiletries, and a few favorite things.

8. Decide what happens to the rest

Plan ahead for estate sales, donations, and the cleanout.

9. Talk about the house

Will you sell, rent, or hold? Talk with a real estate agent early.

10. Plan for hurricane season

Atlantic hurricane season runs June 1 to November 30. Have a backup move date and a plan for the empty house.

You Don't Have to Do It Alone

Your MoveMyMom Advisor can connect you with move managers, movers, and other pros.

Bonus: Three More Things Families Forget

  • Cancel or transfer utilities and subscriptions at the old house, but keep power on until the house is sold or rented.
  • Make copies of key documents (power of attorney, health care surrogate, insurance cards) for the community and for family.
  • Tell her friends and neighbors where she’s moving and when she’ll be ready for visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

As early as you can. A month or more gives everyone room to breathe.

Pack her medications, pajamas, toiletries, glasses, and something familiar. A favorite blanket or photo can help the new room feel like hers.

Start the Conversation

Getting Mom settled is the goal, and we’ll help you get there. Call 877-575-9900 or get started online.