Your 90-Day Plan for Downsizing or Moving to Assisted Living
A calm, step-by-step roadmap to help you (or your loved one) move forward with confidence.
Whether you're thinking about downsizing to a smaller home, moving closer to family, or transitioning to an assisted living community, one thing is certain: the process feels more manageable when you have a plan.
Ninety days is a realistic, generous window that allows you to sort, decide, grieve a little if needed, and ultimately move forward — without the chaos of doing everything at once. This guide breaks those three months into three focused phases so you always know what comes next.
Print it out. Share it with a family member. Or simply bookmark it and return to it week by week. You've got this.
Give Yourself Permission to Take It Slowly
A home holds decades of memories. There's no rush to feel ready overnight. This plan is a guide, not a deadline — adjust it to fit your pace and your heart.
Assess, Decide & Dream a Little
The first month is about clarity — not packing. Use this time to get honest about your needs, explore your options, and involve the people who matter most.
- Make a list of what your current home does and doesn't do well for your lifestyle today.
- Write down your "must-haves" in a new home — single-story, proximity to medical care, community amenities, pet-friendly, etc.
- Honestly assess your current and future care needs (mobility, medication management, social connection).
- Have a candid conversation with your doctor about what level of care or environment would best support your health going forward.
- Research the difference between independent living, assisted living, and memory care to understand what fits your situation.
- Tour at least two or three communities or neighborhoods you're considering — even just a drive-through visit counts as a start.
- If downsizing to a smaller home, research neighborhoods that offer walkability, proximity to shopping, and low-maintenance living.
- Talk with a local real estate agent who specializes in senior transitions to understand current market conditions and timing.
- Get a current market value estimate on your home so you understand what equity you have available.
- Review your monthly budget: Social Security, pension, investment income, and any long-term care insurance.
- Meet with a financial advisor or elder law attorney to review your options, especially if Medicaid planning is relevant.
- Research Colorado's property tax exemptions and other senior financial benefits available to you.
- Have an honest family conversation — not to ask permission, but to communicate your wishes and get support.
- Identify one or two people who will help you physically and emotionally through this process.
- Make sure your important legal documents (will, power of attorney, advance directive) are current and accessible.
