Moving can be a difficult transition, no matter your age or circumstance. But seniors may find moving especially hard when they want to hold onto belongings and keepsakes that hold memories of their lives. Patience and planning will go a long way to making these difficult decisions a little easier for everyone. Moving into a senior living facility often means that your loved one will have to live on a smaller scale and narrow down what they need to bring. Here is your moving to assisted living checklist:
Personal Items
- Toiletries
- Photos and keepsakes
- Purse or wallet
- Eyeglasses
- Hearing aid
- Cane, walker, or wheelchair
- Legal and financial paperwork (keep copies)
Furniture
- Bed
- Side table and lamp
- Dresser
- Small sofa
- Recliner or chairs
- Table or desk
Entertainment
- Television
- Computer
- iPad
- Chargers
- Audio system or radio
- Books
- Puzzles
- Playing cards
- Hobby supplies
Clothing
- Tops and bottoms
- Light sweater or sweatshirt
- Rain jacket or heavy jacket
- Hats, gloves, scarves
- Underwear and socks
- Pajamas
- Robe and slippers
- Comfortable shoes
Décor
- Plants
- Pictures
- Books
- Clock or alarm clock
- Mirror
- Housewares
Kitchen supplies
- Small selection of plates, cups, bowls, and mugs
- Towels
- Linens
- Hangers
- Hamper
Cleaning Supplies
Most assisted living communities provide both housekeeping and laundry services. But for small unexpected messes or quick clean-ups, keep a few items on hand.
- Broom and dustpan
- Surface wipes or multipurpose spray
- Stain removal stick
- Paper towels and kitchen towels
- Dish soap
What Not to Pack
As you help your loved one or parent move to an assisted living community, their space will be smaller, and storage will be limited. Here are some of the items that we suggest that you avoid bringing:
- Oversized furniture
- Furnishings that are wobbly or in need of repair
- Decorative items that sit on the floor
- Glass-top tables
- Area rugs
- Expensive or seldom worn jewelry
- Fancy outfits and dresses
- Outdoor furniture and BBQ, unless their home has a small deck
- Boxes of stored items
If you have any questions about what to bring and move, contact the staff at the senior living community you are moving into. They have a lot of experience moving in new residents and can give you helpful insight on your packing list!
