Plan ahead.

As far in advance as you can, begin planning for the move. Remember, the professionally trained staff understands your concerns and is eager to help your loved one make a smooth transition to the facility.

Tell the facility about your loved one.

Your family physician can provide much of this information. The more the facility knows, the better they can help your family member adjust to daily life. Provide them with written details about individual habits and practices.

Include information about:

Diet

• Good eater?
• Any dietary restrictions: religious, medical or allergy-related?
• Meal times typical portion size?
• What about likes and dislikes?

Mobility

• To what extent can your parent or loved one get around independently?
• Need help because of poor eyesight?
• Will accept help from a staff person or resent it?

Personal Care

• Desired privacy?
• What types of activities can be performed independently?
• Manage personal bathing and grooming?
• Prefer a bath or a shower?

Living conditions

• Did your loved one share a room or bathroom?
• Always did own cooking?
• Likes eating with others?
• Concerned about having a roommate?
• Preferences that might relate to roommate selection?

Mental state

• Becomes fearful in strange surroundings or at night?
• Always knows who he or she is; oriented in time and place? who you are, where you

Religion

• Has a religion? Active worshiper?
• Wishes a particular clergy member to visit?
• Would welcome or be hesitant of a visit by a new clergy member?

Habits and Practices

• Smoke or drink?
• Have a set routine that involves activities that are enjoyed and anticipated, such as watching a particular television show, going for a walk after breakfast or reading a particular newspaper?

Special Interests

• Keeps busy? How?
• Has hobbies?
• Enjoys membership in clubs and social groups?
• Has a special interest in sports, music, arts and crafts or gardening?

While some changes in lifestyle are going to be necessary, facility staff will do their best to help your loved one maintain their current living practices.

Complete paperwork early.

Get a head start on contract and financial details. Before admission day, fill out forms to the best of your ability, making note of questions. Provide a medical and personal history.

Openly discuss all costs. Know what's included and what's extra. Review your understanding of payment, money management and other details. Don't hesitate to ask questions.

Bring some of your loved one’s personal belongings.

Items from home are very important. A small piece of furniture, pictures, books, a radio or TV, a lamp, a clock -- these familiar items will ease the transition. Discuss with staff what's appropriate to bring.

If some of the personal belongings have monetary value, make arrangements with the staff for safekeeping.

Consider clothing needs and laundry facilities. Be sure your loved one has enough comfortable clothing. Label each item with name.

Treatment decisions.

Encourage your loved one to prepare an advance directive. If you have questions, contact an attorney.

Let a new life begin.

Let a new life begin.

Get your family involved.

Frequent visits from friends and family are critical. One way for them to stay involved: join the facility's family council, if available.