Moving Into Memory Care
July 15, 2025
Moving to senior living can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation, it can be an exciting new chapter filled with community, convenience, and peace of mind. Whether you’re considering assisted living, independent living, or memory care, these practical tips will help make your transition as smooth as possible.
Start early. Give yourself plenty of time to research and visit different communities. Most experts recommend starting your search 6-12 months before you plan to move. This allows you to thoroughly evaluate options without feeling rushed and gives you time to get on waiting lists for popular communities.
Downsize thoughtfully. Moving to senior living typically means transitioning to a smaller space. Start decluttering early by sorting belongings into categories: keep, donate, give to family, and discard. This can be a difficult but liberating process, and it’s often helpful to start with non-essential items and work your way toward more personal belongings. Focus on keeping items that have sentimental value or that your loved one uses regularly.
Consider working with a professional organizer or senior move manager who can guide you through this process. These professionals are trained to help you sort, pack, and move in a way that’s efficient and stress-free.
Plan for your space. If possible, visit the new apartment or room to assess the space and plan how to arrange items. Many communities offer detailed floor plans so you can assess which belongings to bring. Some communities provide help setting up your living space, and some even offer moving assistance.
“I often provide families with a list of essential items to bring,” said Maricel Halmo, Community Relations Director at Fieldstone of Marysville. “Be sure to label all clothing clearly. Important items include a laundry hamper, toiletries, towels, washcloths, and two sets of sheets. Avoid bringing rugs as they create fall hazards. She added, “We provide all incontinence supplies, and since we do laundry once a week, you’ll want some backup clothing but don’t need to bring everything.”
Prepare for the emotional transition. Moving to senior living represents a significant life change, and it’s normal for both older adults and their families to feel a mix of emotions. Many residents find that participating in community activities and maintaining familiar routines helps them adjust more quickly.
The day of the move can be stressful, but it’s easier when you’ve planned ahead, including how to explain the move to your loved one.
“You want to have a plan to explain why this is happening that focuses on them. Perhaps something is happening at the house that makes this necessary,” Halmo suggested. “This approach makes more sense to them than saying ‘we can’t take care of you anymore’ or ‘you’re not safe.’ It may feel counterintuitive, but it’s the kindest approach.”
If you’re planning the move yourself, be sure to enlist help from family members, friends, or neighbors to make the day go more smoothly. Also, try to move on a weekday when the senior living community is less likely to be busy.
“It’s nice to have the apartments set up before time,” said Halmo, “but if that’s not possible we are happy to entertain our new guest while family members or other professionals make the move.”
Give your loved one time to adjust. Most people need several months to fully settle into their new community. Don’t hesitate to speak with community staff if you have concerns or need additional support.
The process will be different for each resident, but Fieldstone of Marysville’s detailed intake process ensures that each person’s unique life story informs their care.
And keep in mind that the staff of Fieldstone of Marysville are professionals who are there to help. The hardest part, Halmo said, is often when families need to say goodbye.
“We help redirect and ease the feelings of new residents, which can be hard on family members to watch, but it’s the right way to handle the situation. We work together to create realistic plans for managing these transitions.”
Moving into memory care is a big step, but with careful preparation and the right support, it can be a rewarding transition to a community that enhances your loved one’s quality of life. The process takes time, but it’s well worth it to find a place that will allow your loved one with dementia to live comfortably, safely, and provide you with peace of mind.