Before Your Move

As the time between being notified of a vacancy and moving into a facility is often very short, it is necessary to organize for the move in advance. These are the most important steps that you and your family should take in preparation for the move:

• review eligibility for available benefits, such as Guaranteed Income Supplement or Veterans Affairs benefits
• arrange for a Power of Attorney or a Representation Agreement
• talk about future wishes for medical treatment with your family and doctor
• confirm whether your family doctor will continue to provide medical care after the move
• make a list of places that will need a change of address notification, including BC Medical Services Plan, bank, insurance company, and social organizations
• do budget planning to include the costs of residential care accommodation that will be payable on admission and monthly after that

When notification of a vacancy is received

You should immediately contact the facility to find out:

• when to arrive
• what transportation arrangements are needed
• who should come to help with admission
• what belongings and furnishings can be brought
• what personal items are needed and how to label them