Admission

Purpose of Admission

The primary purpose of admission is to collect detailed information that helps the facility:

• Understand the resident’s medical history and current health needs
• Assess physical, emotional, and cognitive conditions
• Determine if the facility is equipped to provide the appropriate level of care
• Develop an individualized care plan upon entry

What Information Is Collected?

During the admission process, the facility will typically request and review:

• Medical Records
  
  • General medical history
  • Psychiatric or therapeutic records (if applicable)
• Doctor’s Letter
  
  • A recent letter from your loved one’s current physician, ideally including a recommendation for assisted living or memory care
• Current Prescriptions and Therapies
  
  • All medications (prescription, over-the-counter, supplements, and holistic treatments)
  • Dietary needs and restrictions
• Personal and Medical Profile
  
  • Completed by the caregiver or family
  • Includes allergies, previous surgeries, injuries, behavioral observations, and emotional considerations

This information will be paired with an on-site physical and psychological assessment conducted by the facility’s care team. Together, this forms the foundation of a tailored care plan—covering medical, dietary, cognitive, and emotional support.

Emotional Impact of Admission

While paperwork and medical evaluations may seem like the focus, admission is also an emotional milestone.

For many caregivers, this moment brings a deeper level of acceptance: that a new chapter has begun. Often, this step may be accompanied by a surge of difficult emotions—grief, doubt, or guilt. It is the realization that the caregiving journey is shifting from your hands into those of professionals.

Some of the emotionally impactful milestones in this journey include:

• Making the decision to seek outside care
• Touring potential facilities
• Completing the admission process
• Returning home alone after helping your loved one move in

It’s okay to feel overwhelmed. These emotions are a natural part of navigating such a significant life change. Talk with others who’ve gone through this process, journal your thoughts, or seek professional support if you need it.