What a difficult process a move of any sort truly is. Here are a few tips that may be helpful:
1) Enlist the help of an influencer in your loved one's life (Ex. Does your loved one trust the advise of her doctor, her minister, etc.). As the old saying goes, "A prophet is not always welcome in his own home town." What I mean by that is that your loved one may shut down in listening to YOU, her child more so than she would to someone outside of her family. Often times hearing advise from someone else (even if it's the same exact advise) can make a greater impact when it comes from someone whom your loved one holds in high regard.
2) Ask the community for a copy of their activities calendar. When you are ready to plan your trip examine the calendar and look for an activity that your loved one would be interested in. Speak to the staff at the community and ask if it would be ok for your looved one to come and tour during that time slot and possibly take part in the activity. It will be a great comfort to him/her to see others engaging in their interests. He/She may also join in and leave with a different feeling than he/she expected.
3) Think about respite. Respite is a short term stay. Often times when potential residents are hesitant toward the move, they will move in as a 30-day trial stay (aka respite). In this situation they may feel comforted by the idea of 'non-permanency' and be a little more at ease and willing to give it a try. This will allow your loved one to experience first hand what Assisted Living has to offer.