Making the Move to Memory Care: How Thoughtful Preparation Creates a Smoother Transition 

Making the Move to Memory Care: How Thoughtful Preparation Creates a Smoother Transition 

Artis Move In Article July 2026

What to Expect, How to Prepare, and What to Pack 

Making the move to a memory care community is a significant transition – for the person moving in and for the family supporting them. Alongside logistics and planning, there are often questions, emotions, and uncertainty about what comes next. 

At Artis, we understand moving is a process – not just a single day – and we make sure it’s one families don’t navigate alone. Thoughtful preparation, clear communication, and personalized support help create a smoother experience for everyone.  

Before Move-In: Preparing for the Transition 

Every person’s experience is different, but research consistently shows that familiarity, routine, and ongoing family involvement can help support adjustment during major life transitions. The National Institute on Aging recommends maintaining familiar routines, incorporating personal belongings, and preserving meaningful connections and activities whenever possible.* 

One of the ways Artis approaches move-in differently is through our dedicated Director of Community Integration (DCI) role – a position developed specifically to support families through one of life’s most significant transitions. Rooted in The Artis Way and our belief that every person deserves to be known as an individual, the DCI serves as a trusted guide from the earliest planning conversations through the first weeks in the community and beyond. They take time to learn about the person behind the move – their routines, relationships, interests, accomplishments, and life experiences – helping ensure those details shape how we welcome and support them.  

By coordinating preparations, facilitating communication, and guiding families through each step, the DCI helps create continuity, build relationships, and lay the foundation for a highly personalized experience from day one. 
 
Of course, as with any move, there is also business to take care of and paperwork to gather. Artis communities require a copy of both healthcare and financial Power of Attorney forms, insurance and Medicare cards, History and Physical (H&P) with current medication list, and Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order if applicable. The community’s Director of Sales and Marketing will let you know if any additional paperwork is required. 

Sharing the Story Behind the Person 

The most valuable information often goes beyond medical history. Favorite hobbies, lifelong interests, career experiences, family traditions, music preferences, daily routines, and personal accomplishments all help create a fuller picture of who someone is. 

At Artis, our signature Partnership Profile is a robust tool for gathering these personal details to help our team build meaningful connections and create experiences that reflect the individual’s personality and preferences. 

Creating Familiarity From Day One 

Personal belongings can help create a sense of familiarity and make a new environment feel distinctly their own. 

Consider bringing: 

Research suggests that familiar objects can provide reassurance and help support orientation during times of change.* Artis communities feature a Resident Life Portrait outside each suite. Families often include photographs, mementos, and personal details that celebrate interests, accomplishments, and life experiences. These displays celebrate each resident’s story while helping neighbors and team members learn more about the person behind the door. 

Planning the Physical Move Ahead of Time 

Whenever possible, have furniture delivered and in place before move-in day. Walking into a suite that already feels personal and familiar can help reduce stress and create a greater sense of comfort. The Director of Environmental Services at Artis communities works with the DCI to provide support with this. Fully furnished suites are also available. 

What to Expect During the First Few Weeks 

Every person’s experience is different. Some embrace a new environment right away, while others need more time to build familiarity with new surroundings, relationships, and routines. It is common for families to experience a range of emotions during this period as well. 

At first, you may notice: 

This time is less about move-in day itself and more about developing new rhythms, relationships, and routines. 

At Artis, our teams work closely with families to learn what helps each resident feel engaged and connected. Ongoing communication helps ensure everyone remains informed as routines are established and preferences become more apparent.  

It’s also important for you to plan for your own emotional adjustment. Schedule some well-deserved self-care time after your loved one’s move. Ordering food, watching a favorite movie, or taking a long bath can help you reset for this new phase in your family’s life. 

Staying Connected During the Transition 

Family involvement continues to play an important role after move-in. Research and caregiver guidance consistently show that maintaining connection, sharing personal history, and participating in familiar activities can help support successful transitions. 

Some helpful approaches include: 

It is also perfectly acceptable to stay away for a few days if you need to de-stress. Find more tips for meaningful visits here. 

What to Pack for Memory Care 

Packing thoughtfully can help create a living space that feels comfortable, safe, and familiar. The goal is to include the belongings that contribute most to daily comfort and identity. You don’t want to overpack – limiting what you bring to seasonally appropriate choices will help your loved one maintain their independence longer. 

Clothing & Personal Essentials 

Helpful Tip: Label all clothing and personal items with your loved one’s full name. 

Toiletries 

Medical Items 

Comfort & Personal Touches 

A Few Things to Leave at Home 

For safety reasons, certain items cannot be brought into the community, including: 

Community teams inspect furniture and personal items to help ensure a safe living environment. 

Supported Every Step of the Way 

At Artis, move-in begins with getting to know the person behind the paperwork – their interests, relationships, routines, accomplishments, and preferences. That understanding helps shape a highly personalized experience designed around what matters most to them. 

Questions about preparing for move-in? Our team is here to help guide your family through every step of the process. Find an Artis community near you and schedule a tour.

*Sources 

National Institute on Aging – Alzheimer’s Caregiving Resources 

Alzheimer’s.gov – Tips for Caregivers and Families of People with Dementia