Moving your elderly parents into an Assisted Living facility can be a very emotional time for your family. That’s why it is important to take time preparing and packing all the items they will need to help make them feel comfortable and at home in their new place.
You’ve already done the most important part, researching and finding the right assisted living facility for your loved one, so now it’s time to start planning for the move. Given that your parents have lived in the same house for many, many years, it will be tough to decide on which items to bring and which items to leave behind.
To help your family decide, we’ve prepared this assisted living move in checklist for you:
Personal Items:
Personal items are things that your elderly parents use daily, so most likely you will be packing these last. Just remember to make a note so you don’t forget anything.
- Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, face wash, body wash, shaving cream, lotions and other personal hygiene items.
- Bath towels, hand towels and wash cloths.
- Over the counter and prescription medications
- Photo Albums, picture frames and keepsakes
- Devices: Hearing aids, eyeglasses, cane, walker and/or wheelchair
- Purse/Wallet (large amount of cash is not advisable)
- Sentimental jewelries they like to wear everyday
Clothing:
Do not pack a lot. Be sure to bring few essential clothing. Assisted Living facilities usually provide laundry services so there is no need to bring tons of clothes.
- Pajamas and robes
- Casual and comfortable clothing
- Jackets and coats
- Formal wear
- Comfortable shoes, socks and slippers
Furniture:
Keep in mind that the space will be limited so please avoid oversized furniture. It is important to know the room dimensions so be sure to measure all the furniture you are planning to bring. If you are moving your elderly parents to a board and care home (6-bed facility), generally, the following furniture/items are provided:
- Bed and a mattress with pillows and beddings
- One chair
- Nightstand with a lamp
- Dresser with drawers
If you are moving your elderly parents into an assisted living facility, typically, you will be responsible for the furniture. You will be allowed to bring the following:
- Bed with sheets and pillows
- Nightstand/coffee table
- Small couch or a loveseat
- Desk and a chair
- Dresser
Entertainment:
Lots of planned activities and social events are regularly held in assisted living facilities to keep all the residents busy. But it’s always a good idea to bring the following:
- TV
- Tablet/iPad
- Telephone/Cellphone
- Radio
- Chargers
- Favorite books and other reading materials
- Hobby supplies: cards, knitting needles and yarn, etc
- Stationery and writing materials
Pet Supplies:
If your parents are planning to bring their pet when they move into the assisted living, don’t forget to pack the following:
- Pet food
- Bowl (for food and water)
- Pet toys
- Collar with the pet’s name and leash
- Pet bed and blanket
- Cat litter box or dog crate
- Pet meds, if necessary
If you are still unsure and have specific questions about what to bring and what not to bring, contact the Assisted Living Facility where your elderly parents are moving into. Keep in mind that policies vary per facility so it would be best to call the senior care facility directly. They will be able to give you more details and provide you with specific information, including a referral to a local moving company, if needed.
If your family is interested in receiving a Free, Personalized Care Options including Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care communities, please contact one of our Expert Senior Care Advisor at 877-523-6523 or click here to search for the senior care facilities in your area.
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Catharine “Kate” is a Certified Administrator for Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly (RCFE) and an Expert Senior Care Advisor. Kate’s grandmother battled Alzheimer’s Disease and Kate personally understands what millions of families are going through. Kate and her team are very passionate in empowering Seniors and their families by providing them with the Best Available Senior Care Options based on Senior’s care needs, preferred location and family’s budget.
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