Moving is frequently a stressful process, but it can be more stressful when you are making the transition from your current home to an assisted living facility. To help the process go smoothly there are several considerations you need to address during the planning stages.

Plan For Downsizing

Generally, there are more restrictions on what you can have in an assisted living facility and in some cases, certain items you currently own may not fit in your new residence. Make sure you understand any restrictions on cooking appliances, refrigeration, and items that might otherwise generate heat. For example, the assisted living facility may forbid microwaves, hot plates, or mini-fridges altogether or above a certain wattage for personal safety and to reduce the instance of blackouts. These rules may include items you can use that generate heat, such as space heaters, heating pads, or electric blankets.

If possible, have someone take measurements of different areas of your new residence, such as doorways, to be sure larger items you might relocate will fit inside or you can pass through doorways with any assertive devices you currently use. Knowing this information ahead of time will make the process easier on your movers and can prevent the disappointment associated with having to part with items unexpectedly.

Be Mindful Of Utility Needs

You might need to be more strategic about transferring your electric (assuming it is not integrated with the cost of your new residence) if you have medical devices that require electric, such as breathing equipment or a rechargeable, battery-powered mobility device. Generally, when you transfer your utilities, you select a date to cut-off current service and turn on the new service. Try to give yourself extra days although it will mean your account will be active at two different locations. Plan to have your electric cut-off at your old residence a day or two later than normal and turned on earlier than planned at your new place. This will provide a more seamless transition of your medical equipment between the two locations. Additionally, you can have someone check the power outlets at the new residence before your official moving day to ensure they all work properly before they are needed.

Coordinate Medical Transport

If you are moving to an assisted living facility and have significant limitations, depending on who is available to help, you might need the assistance of medical transport. This may need to be coordinated months in advance, especially if you need certain medical equipment readily available to ensure a safe trip. If you happen to be a heavier patient with limited mobility and are traveling a long distance to your new residence, having the assistance of medical transport is essential for your safety to reduce the risk of blood clots. Ask the medical transport personnel if they also assist with the dismantle and assembly of items, such as specialty beds. You will want to have your current bed or a duplicate already assembled at your new place when you arrive, if you are often confined to the bed.

Extra planning may be required if you are relocating to an assisted living facility and have significant medical needs. Dealing with all the fine details now can make moving day easier. Contact a company, like Integrity Moving, for more help.