What to Expect When Moving Into Assisted Living: A Family Guide

The decision to move a loved one into assisted living is often filled with mixed emotions such as relief, worry, hope, and sometimes guilt. Knowing what to expect can ease the transition for both families and residents. At Chesapeake Cottage Assisted Living in Snow Hill, MD, we specialize in higher-level care in a cozy, home-like environment for just 16 residents. Here’s a family-friendly guide to help you prepare.

Before Move-In

Before a resident joins us at Chesapeake Cottage Assisted Living, there are just a few important steps to complete. Families will need to have a Health Care Practitioner Form filled out by their loved one’s primary doctor, along with a MOLST (Medical Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment) form. These documents help us understand the resident’s medical needs and wishes. Once we have them, our team can determine the appropriate level of care, pricing, and personalized plan of action to ensure your loved one receives the right support. After these steps are taken, move-in can happen immediately, making the transition smooth and timely for families.

1. The First Day: Warm Welcomes and Settling In

Moving day can feel overwhelming, but our team works to make it as smooth as possible. Families are encouraged to bring familiar items such as favorite chairs, photos, or blankets to make the new space feel like home. Upon arrival, our staff greets each new resident, introduces them to other residents, and helps them get oriented.

2. Personalized Care Plans

Every resident has different needs. During the first few days, our care team completes an assessment to build a personalized plan that covers:

• Medication management

• Personal care needs (bathing, dressing, mobility support)

• Dietary preferences and restrictions

• Activity interests

This ensures your loved one receives the right level of support while maintaining independence.

3. Getting to Know the Community

One of the biggest adjustments is moving from home to a community environment. At Chesapeake Cottage, with only 16 residents, your loved one will quickly get to know neighbors and staff. We keep the atmosphere friendly and relaxed, meals are shared at the dining table, activities are small-group, and staff are always available.

4. Daily Activities and Routines

Expect days filled with more than just care. Our residents enjoy:

• Gardening in our outdoor spaces

• Arts and crafts

• Puzzles and games

• Bingo and music

• Low-impact exercises to stay active

These activities help seniors stay engaged, make friends, and enjoy their days.

5. Family Involvement

Moving into assisted living doesn’t mean families step back. In fact, your role remains essential. Families are welcome to visit, join activities, or simply spend quiet time together. Many families say they feel relief knowing that daily caregiving needs are handled, freeing up visits to focus on quality time.

6. Emotional Adjustment

It’s normal for new residents (and families) to feel nervous at first. Within a few weeks, most begin to feel at home enjoying meals, joining activities, and connecting with others. Staff play a huge role in helping with this adjustment, offering reassurance and a familiar routine.

Tips for Families to Make the Transition Easier

✔️ Pack comfort items from home✔️ Visit often in the first few weeks✔️ Stay positive and encourage participation in activities✔️ Keep communication open with staff

The Chesapeake Cottage Difference

With 24/7 med techs on site, a dedicated chef, and a maximum of only 16 residents, Chesapeake Cottage Assisted Living combines the safety of professional care with the warmth of home. Families can rest easy knowing their loved one is surrounded by care, community, and comfort.

👉 Ready to see what life here feels like? Call us at 443-880-6255 to schedule a tour today.