Before the move:

• Make sure you have done your homework.  Preparation is the key to success. (Senior Living Experts can help with this part!)

• Choose a community that is a good match for the care needs & location.

• Try to pick a place that nurtures what is important to the senior be it religious services, bringing their beloved pet, or a pool for swimming.

• It is very important to involve the senior in the selection process if possible.

• Evaluate cost - get past the 'sticker shock' of the monthly rent and use a comparison worksheet if necessary to help determine affordability and value.

• Listen to the concerns and fears of the senior and address them.

• Let them know they are NOT losing control.

• Create a pro's & con's list.

• Go through some "what if's" and keep the end goal in mind.

• Try to make sure everyone in the family is on the same "team".

• Realize that if you wait, your selection may be limited, especially if a crisis occurs.

• Visit the community as much as possible before the move to meet residents and staff as well as try the food.

• Review the contract carefully.

• Read resident rights and know the process for voicing complaints, compliments or concerns.

• Walk the building to get a feel for where everything is before you move and review activity schedules to plan ahead and have events to look forward to.

• Allow as much time as possible before the move to prepare - but don't put it off.  Hire a Senior Move Manager if necessary.

• Meet with the move-in coordinator who will be helpful on many levels, the most important being that they have done this many times and may have additional advice or help. They can help decide what will come from home and where it can be placed in the new apartment.

• Do NOT schedule the move-in for the weekend; try to move during the week when the community is fully staffed.

• Inquire about a "Be Our Guest" program.  Some communities provide furnished rooms for a few days at no charge to help the future resident get acclimated.

• Be sure to complete the resident history questionnaires before moving in as it helps the staff in the building become even more involved with the new resident if they already know their history, likes and dislikes.

• If you are out of town and need to fly in to help with the move, inquire about a guest apartment at the community.  They are usually at a rate much lower than a hotel, and you will get to spend more quality time with your loved one during this transition.