When it’s time to move to assisted living, things become emotional. This time is marked with moments of reflection and joy, but it also brings new challenges. It helps to plan ahead to make the transition much easier for your family. Knowing what to bring along makes a big difference—and so does knowing what not to bring.
When packing for assisted living, prioritize comfort and ease. Leave out items that clutter or complicate everyday life. Make a point to check out your loved one’s future home ahead of time, as you can find out what’s included in their room or apartment.
How to Know It’s Time for Assisted Living
The first step is identifying the need for assisted living. Age sometimes brings new changes to everyday life, and these sometimes make independence more challenging.
Watch for signs your loved one is struggling to maintain their independence. These could include:
- Difficulty managing personal hygiene
- Forgetting to take medications or taking the wrong dosages
- Struggling to keep up with household chores
- Experiencing frequent falls or mobility issues
- Exhibiting signs of loneliness or social withdrawal
- Noticeable weight loss or poor nutrition habits
These all indicate your loved one needs more personalized support in their everyday life. A move to assisted living can be an excellent way to restore independence and autonomy, both of which boosts your loved one’s quality of life.
What To Pack When Moving To Assisted Living
Once you’ve identified the need for assisted living, it’s time to make a plan. Moving is a long, complex process, so break it down into several core steps.
Personal Comfort Items That Feel Like Home
Focus on bringing familiar and meaningful items. Some ideal options include:
- Family photos or picture frames
- A favorite blanket or quilt
- Familiar decorations or keepsakes
- A comfortable chair or cushion
These create a cozy atmosphere and make a living space much more comfortable.
Daily Essentials For Everyday Living
Next, practical items should be the next priority. These include:
- Toiletries such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, and shampoo
- A set of dishes, utensils, and basic cookware
- Cleaning supplies like paper towels, sponges, and a multipurpose cleaner
- Towels and bedding, like sheets and pillowcases
- Basic clothing for different weather conditions
- A first aid kit for minor emergencies
This makes everyday life easier to manage.
Hobbies & Entertainment For Enjoyment
Include books, games, crafting supplies, or tools for hobbies. These bring joy to everyday life and make your loved one’s favorite pastimes much more accessible.
Important Documents & Organizational Items
One often-overlooked aspect of the transition is paperwork. Important documents should all be gathered together so you can remove any guesswork from the move. Make sure to pack:
- Birth certificates
- Passports
- Social Security cards
- Financial records
- Medical documents
- Insurance papers
Gather these together, and remember to update any important forms—like utility bills, banking information, and insurance paperwork— with your loved one’s new address.
What Not To Pack When Moving To Assisted Living
While it’s important to pack meaningful belongings, certain items are sometimes better left behind. This helps to prevent overcrowding or risks. For example, oversized furniture can take up too much space, and excessive kitchen utensils are unnecessary.
Some items to avoid include:
- Bulky furniture that won’t fit in a smaller space
- Hazardous items such as candles or space heaters
- Duplicate or rarely used kitchenware
- Excessive amounts of clothing or accessories
- Collections or items with little sentimental value
- Expired medications or unnecessary medical supplies
If you’re unsure of where to begin, it helps to reach out to your new community. They can give you practical advice and let you know what’s included in your loved one’s future home.
Tips for Packing for Assisted Living
Making the move to assisted living is a big step. However, packing doesn’t have to be stressful. Start early to give yourself and your loved one time to thoughtfully sort through belongings.
Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:
- Make a list of essential items to ensure nothing important is forgotten.
- Focus on items that bring comfort and familiarity.
- Label all personal belongings to prevent them from getting misplaced.
- Pack clothing suitable for all seasons, but avoid overpacking by prioritizing practicality.
- Include important documents in a separate, easily accessible folder.
- Collaborate with the staff at the assisted living community to understand what items are provided and what should be brought as part of the move.
These steps can make the process feel manageable as you prepare for this new chapter.
Is It Time for a Move to Assisted Living?
A move to assisted living can be rewarding. It’s a way to help an older loved one maintain their independence in their everyday life. And our team at Peregrine Senior Living at Shaker is ready to welcome your loved one with open arms!In our community, your loved one can thrive every day. We’re here to make every moment matter and give them a space that feels just like home. Schedule a visit with us today—your loved one’s future home could be waiting for them.
