Checklist for Moving Elderly Parents Into Assisted Living | Britt Moves

A Big Step, Many Emotions

Helping a parent move into assisted living is one of the hardest transitions an adult child will ever face. Beyond the logistics - packing, organizing, scheduling movers - there’s the emotional weight of the change. Parents may feel like they’re losing independence, while you may feel guilt or second-guessing: “Am I doing the right thing?”

The truth is, this step often brings safety, support, and peace of mind for both parent and family. What makes the difference is preparation. That’s why we created this complete checklist for moving elderly parents into assisted living - to give you a clear, step-by-step guide so you can focus less on stress and more on supporting your loved one through the transition.

Step 1: Plan Ahead and Set a Timeline

A smooth move starts with planning. Rushing only creates stress.

Checklist for Planning Ahead:

• Confirm the move-in date with the assisted living community.

• Ask for their move-in policies (furniture dimensions, safety regulations, delivery times).

• Create a realistic timeline - ideally starting 60–90 days before the move.

• Identify who will be involved (siblings, move manager, movers, estate sale support).

Pro Tip: Ask the facility for a floor plan of your parent’s new living space. This helps with decisions about what furniture and belongings to bring.

Step 2: Talk With Your Parent Early and Often

Emotions run high during this type of transition. Being proactive with communication helps reduce fear and resistance.

How to Approach the Conversation:

• Choose quiet, private moments (not rushed or in front of others).

• Emphasize benefits: safety, social opportunities, less home maintenance.

• Ask about their wishes for belongings and room setup.

• Listen actively - sometimes they just want to feel heard.

Step 3: Sort and Downsize Belongings

Most assisted living apartments are smaller than the family home. Downsizing is necessary.

Sorting System:

1. Keep: Items for daily use or deep sentimental value.

2. Donate: Gently used items others could benefit from.

3. Sell: Larger items that hold value (estate sale, consignment).

4. Discard: Broken or outdated items.

Helpful Tips:

• Use colored stickers or bins for each category.

• Start with non-emotional items (kitchen duplicates, linens).

• Save sentimental rooms (photos, heirlooms) for last.

• Limit furniture to essentials - bed, favorite chair, dresser, nightstand.

Step 4: Pack for Comfort and Safety

Packing for assisted living is different from a typical move. Comfort and accessibility matter most.

Essential Packing Checklist:

• Comfortable clothing (easy to put on/take off).

• Favorite chair, bedding, and familiar décor.

• Photos, keepsakes, or memory items.

• Everyday essentials: toiletries, medications, glasses, hearing aids.

• Organizational tools: labeled drawers, easy-access storage bins.

Tip: Avoid clutter. Too much furniture or décor can make the space unsafe.

Step 5: Coordinate Moving Day Logistics

Moving day can be chaotic without a plan.

Moving Day Checklist:

• Confirm mover arrival time and facility’s move-in window.

• Pack an “Essentials Bag” (clothes, medications, important documents, snacks).

• Assign family roles (one with movers, one with parent, one setting up).

• Bring cleaning supplies for a quick wipe-down of the new space.

Step 6: Set Up the New Space Thoughtfully

Your parent’s comfort depends on how the new apartment feels on day one.

Tips for a Smooth Setup:

• Replicate familiar layouts (place the nightstand on the same side of the bed).

• Hang family photos and place familiar décor right away.

• Stock the fridge with favorite snacks and drinks.

• Ensure safety: clear walkways, good lighting, grab bars if needed.

Goal: Make the apartment feel like home the very first night.

Step 7: Handle Paperwork and Administration

Moves into assisted living often come with paperwork. Get this organized early.

Documents to Prepare:

• ID and insurance cards.

• Medical history and medication lists.

• Power of attorney or advance directives.

• Financial and billing information.

• Contact list of family and doctors.

Keep copies both at the new residence and with a trusted family member.

Step 8: Provide Emotional Support Before, During, and After

The logistics may be done, but emotions linger.

Ways to Support Your Parent Emotionally:

• Visit frequently in the first weeks.

• Encourage participation in activities to build new friendships.

• Be patient with resistance - adjustment takes time.

• Celebrate the positives: less stress, more safety, new community.

Remember: Your presence and reassurance matter more than a perfect moving plan.

Sample 60-Day Moving Timeline

• 60 Days Out: Confirm move-in date, gather paperwork, start decluttering.

• 45 Days Out: Begin downsizing rooms, identify what furniture will fit.

• 30 Days Out: Hire movers, donate/sell large items, pack non-essentials.

• 14 Days Out: Organize essentials bag, finalize room setup plan.

• Move-In Week: Pack remaining items, coordinate movers, set up new space.

Final Thoughts: From Overwhelm to Peace of Mind

Moving a parent into assisted living is never easy. But with preparation, empathy, and a clear checklist, the process can shift from overwhelming to manageable.

Using this checklist for moving elderly parents into assisted living ensures that you won’t overlook important details - and, more importantly, it allows you to focus on what matters most: supporting your parent through a major life change with dignity, comfort, and love.

FAQs About Moving Elderly Parents Into Assisted Living

Q1: How do I know what furniture will fit?
Request a floor plan from the assisted living community and measure items before deciding.

Q2: What if my parent refuses to move?
Have open conversations, involve a doctor or counselor if needed, and focus on safety and quality of life benefits.

Q3: How do I reduce stress on moving day?
Prepare an essentials bag, assign family roles, and set up the new space before your parent arrives.

Q4: What if siblings disagree on the move?
Discuss roles early, document decisions, and consider a neutral third party if tensions escalate.

Q5: Do we need a professional senior move manager?
While not required, move managers handle logistics, coordination, and emotional support - reducing family stress significantly.