Making the Move: Assisted Living Transition in Kendallville, IN

The elderly population of U.S. citizens is expected to increase from 58 million to 82 million by 2050. Many of them will have difficulties living in their current housing.

Perhaps their homes aren't designed to accommodate mobility issues -- they may have trouble getting up and down stairs. Some older adults live far from others, which can be troublesome in an emergency.

Whatever the case, it may be time to consider assisted living in Kendallville, IN. Of course, it's easy to say, "Mom, we should discuss assisted living."

Acclimating to a new environment is entirely different. There is a process that helps simplify moving to retirement homes in Kendallville. Below is a checklist to help your loved ones settle into their new home.

Downsize and Organize

Many older adults move from larger homes or apartments to smaller quarters within assisted living. The first step in moving to senior living communities is figuring out how much you need to downsize.

Before you and your loved ones start throwing items out, donating, or packing; first figure out the housing floor plan, you can ask for a floor plan with measurements. Some may have them posted on their websites.

If the community can't supply measurements, take your own when on tour. It's important to know how large your loved one's new quarters are and what they can accommodate. Here are a few more helpful tips:

Take pictures
- It's easier to remember the details of a space with photos
- They'll help differentiate if you've toured multiple communities
Know what services are offered
- For example, do they offer meals or catering?
  - If so, pots and pans may be unnecessary
- If there's a kitchenette, there may be the option to cook
  - At the very least, pack mugs, glasses, plates, etc.
Ask questions
- Is there a packing list for future residents
- Are there specific required items?
  - Like laundry baskets
- Are there disallowed items?
  - For example, throw rugs (they're a fall/trip hazard)

There is also the matter of what you'll keep, donate, or dispose of. Here is a general rule of thumb to follow:

Keep what you use regularly and is in good condition
Donate or gift things in good condition you won't have room for
- Consider items you don't use often
Discard things you don't need or use frequently
- It's also a good idea to get rid of:
  - Worn-out or stained clothing
  - Broken items

Planning Move Logistics

Preplanning can make moving to senior living much easier, but it depends on how well you plan. First:

Create a timeline for the move
- Create a move-in date with the community
Work backwards from the move date to make a timeline
- Make time to complete the paperwork
- Arrange time to resolve legal or financial matters

The actual move should only take a day. Organizing, packing, and administrative items will require more time -- possibly many weeks.

A senior move manager can help make the downsizing and relocation process easier for your loved ones. Consider whether you need traditional movers to help pack and move items.

They may not be needed if the move is close by. If you do need movers, make sure you research reputable companies, the assisted living community may have suggestions.

Handling Health and Medical Considerations

All assisted living communities don't have doctors on staff, but they still need to know all your parents' medical issues and requirements. It's like how they had to tell your school about allergies to keep you safe.

The first step is completing all required tests. Moving into assisted living in Kendallville, IN, requires a TB Test and a physician referral form, which includes information about:

Required level of care
Current medications
Immunizations

Some communities ask for a negative COVID-19 test before moving in. You can ask whether your chosen assisted living center requires this.

Paperwork and Legal Matters

There's paperwork, bill management, and cancelations that need handling before the move. The community will need paperwork for medical and financial information.

Residents and families must also fill out forms for emergency contacts and questions about their interests and preferences. Senior care services like assisted living often have inclusive utilities like water, electricity, and cable.

These services at your loved ones' home can likely be canceled with needing to be transferred to their new address. WiFi and personal telephone lines may also be included, so it's always best to ask if you're unsure.

Other important matters you must handle include filling out a change of address and updating important documents, like:

Social security
Health Insurance ID Cards (Medicaid or Medicare)
Power of attorney documentation
- Allows someone to make medical and financial decisions for you
Do-not-resuscitate (DNR) order
- If you don't want CPR in case of cardiac arrest
A living will or trust
- Outlines the distribution of your property and assets after death

Settling In

Arguably, the most difficult part of moving to senior living is settling in. There's not much you can do about the emotions of living somewhere new for the first few weeks or months.

Here's what new residents can do to acclimate faster:

Familiarize yourselves with the community
- New residents and their families should get to know staff
- Find out where communal spaces are near resident living areas
Personalize the living quarters
- Adding personal touches can make an area feel more like home
Locate emergency call devices
- Many assisted living communities have emergency pull cords
- They're often in the bathrooms and bedrooms
- Arrange furniture so they're easier to reach

Our final advice is for your loved ones to get to know their neighbors. One of the greatest benefits of assisted living is making new friends and building a supportive network that can ease any apprehension.

Find Assisted Living in Kendallville, IN

Finding assisted living in Kendallville, IN, can be daunting. There are many communities to consider, and you've got to do plenty of research to ensure you pick the right establishment.

Luckily, Chandler Place Assisted Living is one of the premier retirement homes in Kendallville. We offer assisted living and respite care as elderly living options according to what your loved ones need.