If you’re considering moving to Florida for assisted living, you should know a few things before you make the big move. It’s an exciting time! You’ll have your room and kitchen and access to medical care whenever necessary—but it’s also a big change. Here are some tips on how to make sure that your new assisted living FL home is as comfortable as possible:
Check The Weather
Florida is a great place for many reasons, but the weather isn’t always one of them. If you’re moving from a temperate climate like New England or the Midwest, it’s important to realize that Florida has distinct seasons and unique weather patterns depending on where you live.
If you enjoy cold winters and warm summers like in many parts of New England, moving to Florida will probably be less than desirable because it hardly ever gets below 60 degrees and stays sunny most days of the year (except during hurricane season). This may sound appealing if your current climate is too cold or unpredictable when it snows! However, if this is not what works for you, consider another move destination, such as Arizona, where there are distinct seasons with drastic temperature changes throughout the year between winter and summer.
If, however, you love living somewhere hot all year round—and don’t mind sweating through months at a time without seeing snowflakes—then Florida might be just what your old bones need!
Get Your Paperwork In Order
The second thing you will want to do is ensure that all your paperwork is in order. If you don’t have a will, it’s time to get one. If you have a choice and are moving out of state, it must be updated with all necessary information so it can be registered in Florida.
The next thing on the list is power of attorney—if you move out of state with no power of attorney, then whoever handles your affairs while away (usually the executor) will not be able to manage financial matters for you.
It’s also important that all necessary documents are signed by everyone involved in these decisions: health care proxy and health care directive, for example. Both documents determine who should make decisions if someone becomes unable and unwilling or alone from making those decisions themselves; these need signatures from everyone involved, so they are valid should something happen (and trust me—it will).
Choose A Facility
Don’t forget to look at the retirement community itself. You want to ensure it is clean and well-maintained, and the staff is friendly and attentive. Look for reviews online or talk to people in your community who might have experience with local facilities to ask about their experiences. Consider what activities and events each facility offer and if they offer any special services, such as transportation or on-site doctors.
Lastly, be sure to factor in what food options are available in each community. Assisted living communities typically have an area where meals are served, and residents can eat together with friends and family members. Still, some may also provide private dining rooms for those that wish to eat alone or with specific companions (such as those who share similar tastes).
Conclusion
Moving to Florida for assisted living can be a big adjustment. It’s important to know your options and how to move into the state to make the most of it!
