This longitudinal study examined 168 residents’ perceptions of stressors and adaptation during the initial eight-months of living in long-term care facilities. Sample was obtained from 14 facilities in two metropolitan areas using data from a previous study (Kahana, Kahana, & Young, 1987). The study considered stressors including problems related to the person, to interactions between person and environment, and to institutional structure. External resources, including anticipatory socialization and internal resources, including adaptation methods, were investigated. Quality of life outcomes were considered at two-weeks and at eight-months post institutionalization and included health, psychological, and social outcomes. The framework of the research was based on the stress paradigm (Lazarus & Folkman, 1984). Within this paradigm, several theoretical propositions were examined including Hierarchy of Needs (Maslow, 1954), Total Institution (Goffman, 1961), Person-Environment Fit (Kahana, 1982), Role theory (Deutch & Krauss, 1965), and Self Concept (Cooley, 1937). Data analysis included descriptive, bivariate, and regression analyses. Stressors were not found to play a statistically significant role in determining quality of life, possibly due to high levels of anticipatory socialization (e.g. half the sample had six or more months to prepare for the move). Furthermore, initial health was relatively good, with 25% suffering from major functional difficulties, and 20% showing problems in cognitive functioning. Passive adaptations were better suited for institutional settings than proactive adaptation. Proactive adaptation significantly predicted lower morale (beta=-.16, p<.05), while passive adaptation did not. Furthermore, being socially connected with people both inside and outside the institution resulted in better self-rated health (beta=.33, p<.05; beta=.34, p<.05 respectively). However, having experienced negative family events predicted poorer self-rated health (beta=-.16, p<.05). Accordingly, families play a dual role, one of offering beneficial support, and another where their family problems can adversely affect residents. Finally, morale improved for about 40% of respondents over the eight-months of settling into long-term care, possibly due to the tumultuous period that preceded being institutionalized. In conclusion, facilities could help residents deal more effectively with family related stressors and help residents become integrated in the institutional community. Facilities could also address concerns brought to their attention by residents, thus rewarding proactive adaptation.