Free resource
30-Day Senior Care Move-In Checklist
A week-by-week timeline for families transitioning a parent to assisted living or memory care — from first research to move-in day.
Day 1–3: Assess & document
- □List daily care needs (bathing, meds, mobility, meals)
- □Gather insurance cards, Medicare/Medicaid info, POA documents
- □Set a monthly budget range including care-level add-ons
- □Talk with siblings — assign roles (finances, tours, medical)
Week 1: Research & screen
- □Run Medicaid eligibility screening for your state
- □Look up facility license and inspection records
- □Shortlist 5–8 communities within 30 minutes of family
- □Call each community — ask about availability and all-in pricing
Week 2: Tour & compare
- □Tour at least 3 communities in person
- □Request written care assessment and monthly cost quote
- □Ask about staff ratios, medication management, and move-out policy
- □Speak with a current family — not just the sales director
Week 3: Verify & decide
- □Re-check state inspection portal for top choices
- □Review contract with elder law attorney if assets are significant
- □Confirm VA benefits or long-term care insurance coverage
- □Choose community and request hold on preferred room type
Week 4: Move-in prep
- □Schedule physician health assessment required by community
- □Label clothing and personal items
- □Set up mail forwarding and update pharmacy
- □Plan move day — who accompanies parent, what time to arrive
Documents to gather
- □Photo ID and Social Security card (copy)
- □Medicare / Medicaid card
- □Power of attorney or guardianship papers
- □Physician health assessment (community form)
- □Medication list with dosages and pharmacy contact
- □Insurance policies (LTC, supplemental)
- □Emergency contact list with phone numbers
- □List of allergies and dietary restrictions
- □Advance directive / living will (if applicable)
- □Bank or payment method for monthly fees