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Caregiving often requires making difficult decisions. One of the most challenging moments families face is recognizing when a loved one may no longer be able to live safely at home. The transition to an assisted living community or board and care home can be emotionally and financially challenging for everyone involved, but with preparation, families can reduce stress and ensure their loved one has the support they need.
Admissions into assisted living communities can be unpredictable, depending on factors such as room availability, finding the right facility, and other considerations. It is essential to begin preparing before the need becomes urgent. Here are a few tips to help families plan and make the process smoother and less overwhelming:
Start with Conversations and Care Planning
Begin the conversation with your loved one about future care needs. Meet with their primary care provider to discuss next steps, complete any required documents, and review important health records or directives together.
Gather Important Documentation
Having paperwork organized in advance prevents delays during the admission process. Commonly required items include:
- LIC 602/Physician’s Report for Community Care Facilities
- Tuberculosis (TB) test results (within the last six months)
- Vaccination records
- Medication list
- Valid identification – e.g. driver’s license, passport, etc.
- Insurance cards – e.g. medical, prescription, dental, Medicare, or Veterans Affairs (VA)
- Advance Health Care Directive/Durable Power of Attorney (DPOA) for health
- Durable Power of Attorney (DPOA) for finance
- Physician’s Order for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST)
Clarify Roles and Responsibilities
Ensure that your loved one’s support system understands their respective roles, whether serving as an emergency contact, health representative, or financial decision-maker.
Plan for Logistics
If the individual is relocating from out of state, coordinate moving dates with insurance transitions and establish care with a new primary care physician to avoid gaps in coverage.
Know What Matters to You
When exploring options, decide what is most important, such as location to your loved one’s support system, facility/ room size, level of care, social opportunities, and amenities,to help guide your search.
While the decision to move a loved one is never easy, preparing early provides peace of mind. With Keiro Kikyo Home opening in the future, families who begin organizing now will be ready to take the next step when the time comes. Stay connected with Keiro for updates on Keiro Kiyko Home and to learn more about our programs and resources to promote aging with confidence and living with vitality.