Guide to Moving a Loved One into Senior Living
January 13, 2026
If your loved one is preparing to move into senior living, taking steps to ensure a smooth transition can help them feel more at home more quickly. This, in turn, can help them thrive. While change is often stressful, there are things you can do to help take the edge off and lighten the load in the process. The Hickman in West Chester, PA, is a well-respected Friends senior living community that welcomes the opportunity to welcome your loved one home.
Choose the Right Senior Living Community
A primary matter when it comes to moving your relative into a new living environment is helping them choose the right place for them. Instead of looking for an assisted living facility, put some effort into finding a senior living community where they can put down roots.
When it comes to senior living, one size does not fit all. At The Hickman, we offer two levels –-Personal Care and Memory Care– and each can be adapted to each resident’s unique needs. The idea is elevating independence while providing compassionate care that affords the balance of support your family member requires and desires.
Create a Timeline
Even relatively simple moves come with complications, and expecting the unexpected is always advised. The more effort you put into creating a working timeline now, the better prepared you and your loved one will be when the time comes to move. Knowing what to expect can also help your family member feel more settled and secure regarding what comes next.
Matters to address include all the following:
- Determining which belongings your relative will need and which they want to move with them – and making decisions regarding everything else
- Planning and scheduling the packing
- Scheduling the move itself – whether this means hiring a moving company or coming together as a family to get the job done
- Scheduling a move-in date and discussing the senior living community’s best practices for smooth transitions
Throughout the process, staying connected and involved as a family can help ease the emotional weight of the move. Sharing stories, visiting together, or helping set up their new space fosters a sense of belonging and reminds your loved one that this next chapter is still surrounded by family and community.
Putting this time in upfront helps pave the way toward a smooth transition.
Personalize Their Living Space
An important aspect of every dwelling is personalizing it, which is key when it comes to making the place you live your home. The design and finishing touches that make your relative’s new living space comfortable and inviting for them are important. In fact, they can make all the difference when it comes to embracing this new chapter in their life.
Consider a Well-Established Senior Living Community in West Chester
The Hickman in West Chester, PA, is a Friends senior living community that appreciates each resident’s unique experiences, preferences, and needs. We are committed to making your family member’s move as seamless as possible, and we will work closely with you to help make that happen. To learn more about everything we have to offer, please do not wait to contact us online or call us at 484-760-6300 today.