Assisted Living: I’m Moving In, Now What Should I Bring?

Now that the big decision is made, what should you take? Most people say to take the items that will be used every day. But the important part to remember is that usually, space is limited. So it would be a good idea to scale back on the number of things you bring. For example, instead of bringing that 12-piece dining set for 10, maybe just bring 2-4 pieces. You will want to set their new place up with the same comforts that they have at home, just on a smaller scale.

Oftentimes family thinks it’s best to start off with all new or something different than what they have at home.  But as long as it isn’t worn out or in poor condition it is often better to keep the same furniture and belongings that they are comfortable with.  It’s best to visit with your loved one and find out what their needs and wants are.

It is always a good recommendation to follow-up with the community to see what their limitations and preferred items would be. Some buildings already provide items for you, (small fridge, microwave, paper towels).  Also, many buildings have things that they do not allow: hot plates, coffeemakers, and toasters.  The other thing to think about is if you would like to limit the amount of jewelry and expensive items you bring.  It may be a good time to pass along those family heirlooms.  Also, make sure that all items are marked including clothes.

Furniture

• Bed (bring a bed with a familiar mattress, usually a full or smaller size)
• Nightstand (ideally with drawers and shelves)
• Seating (chairs with arms, rocker; avoid chairs on casters)
• Small table(s) with storage, such as shelves or drawers
• Small kitchen table or drop-leaf table (a standard dining table is usually too big)
• Dresser (it may fit in closet for extra storage; drawers are often easier than hanging everything)

Housewares

• Microwave, small fridge (if not provided)
• Dishes and glasses to use every day (but probably not settings for 10 or 12)
• Pots and pans (large and small pots and frying pans may be sufficient)
• Coffeemaker( if allowed)
• Mixer (if doing any cooking)
• Nice serving dish (if your loved one likes to cook, there will be entertaining and social opportunities)
• Bedding (two sets of sheets, blankets, pillows, and a comforter — easier than a separate decorative bedspread)
• Bath towels, hangers, trash cans

Personal items

Clothes (winnowed to fit closet space; include pajamas, robe, bathing suit if applicable, sweaters for air conditioning, nice outfits for socializing; two weeks’ worth of underwear and socks so there’s a clean set available while the other is in the laundry)

• Shoes, nonskid slippers (minimal pairs needed)
• Basic toiletries
• Medications (unless they need to be ordered by building)
• Small file or other storage for medical, legal, and financial paperwork
• Photographs to display or look at in books (digitize everything else to store)
• Special heirloom or memento to give a sense of home (if not passed on)
• Small safe (but don’t bring jewelry, etc., that’s not regularly used)

Cleaning supplies

• Dish soap
• Dishtowels
• Surface wipes
• Window cleaner
• Bathroom cleaner
• Laundry basket
• Laundry detergent
• Dusting cloths

Decorations

• Wall decor (photographs, paintings)
• Curtains (check ahead – blinds are usually already in place)
• Lamps, light bulbs
• Clock
• Vase
• Throw (for toss-on warmth)
• Holiday decoration

Entertainment

• Television (if used, make sure your loved one knows how to operate it)
• Music system (if used, make sure your loved one knows how to operate it)
• Desktop, laptop, or tablet computer (if your loved one will use it)
• Tool kit (some communities have workshop areas)
• Hobby supplies (needlework, paints, craft materials within reason, cards, books)

What NOT to Pack for a Move to Assisted Living

As with most moves, it is a good time to go through and decide what is really needed.  But most moves to assisted living are a downsizing time.  So remember to bring what is going to be used regularly.  Also, there are a few things that are discouraged and not recommended and need to be carefully considered before bringing:

• Lots of knick-knacks or collectibles (surface space will be limited)
• Throw rugs or area rugs (they’re a tripping hazard)
• Chairs on wheels
• Seldom-worn jewelry
• Multiples of most things (e.g., mugs, appliances, bathrobes, coats, handbags)
• Large-scale furniture
• Boxes of stored items (bring only what’s used regularly)