What to Pack for Your Assisted Living Move
According to the U.S. Census, it's estimated that 7.6% of the population moves to a new location in the same county each year. Packing up to move is already a stressful experience. However, if you're making the big assisted living move, it can be even worse.
That's because, on top of downsizing, you also need to know exactly what to pack.
So what are some of the essential things you should bring to your new assisted living community? And what are some of the things you should leave behind? In this assisted living packing guide, we'll answer these questions so you can make the big move as stress-free as possible.
What to Pack? Start With the Essentials for Daily Living
Packing the essentials for daily living is crucial for maintaining comfort and independence in assisted living.
When figuring out what to bring to assisted living, clothing is one of the first things to consider. Bring a mix of comfortable, weather-appropriate outfits for everyday wear. It's also wise to include a few special occasion outfits for family visits or community events. Choose easy-to-care-for fabrics that are durable and comfortable for daily use.
Personal hygiene items are another important consideration. These include:
- Toothbrushes
- Toothpaste
- Soap
- Shampoo
- Lotion
- Deodorant
Medications should be organized carefully. Consider a pill organizer and ensure there is a clear system for managing prescriptions. You may want to set up daily reminders to help keep track.
Eyewear and hearing aids are essential for daily life. Pack any glasses or contact lenses, along with necessary accessories for their maintenance. If you use hearing aids, bring those along, too, as well as any required cleaning supplies or batteries.
Safety items are also important. Depending on your mobility, you may need:
- Non-slip socks
- A cane
- Walker
- Other mobility aids
These items should be placed in accessible spots within your room for daily use.
2. Comfort and Familiarity
Bringing items that offer comfort and a sense of familiarity will help make the transition easier.
Bedding and linens are essential for ensuring comfort in your new space. Consider bringing your favorite pillows, blankets, and sheets to create a cozy atmosphere. Familiar bedding can help you feel more at home and relaxed as you adjust to your new living environment.
Personal mementos, like family photos or sentimental keepsakes, can bring a sense of connection to home. Framed photos or small meaningful items can make your new space feel more personalized and comforting.
If you enjoy reading, packing your favorite books or magazines will provide both entertainment and relaxation. Having access to reading materials is especially important for downtime, and it can help with managing stress and staying mentally engaged.
Comfort items, like a favorite chair, lamp, or throw blanket, can further personalize the space.
3. Technology and Communication
Staying connected and entertained is vital in assisted living, so consider packing some technology for convenience.
If needed, bring a cell phone along with its charger. For those who may not be familiar with smartphones, consider a simple cell phone with larger buttons or amplified sound for easier communication. Staying in touch with family and friends can help reduce feelings of isolation.
In addition to a cell phone, check with the community about television services. If they do not provide a TV, or if you prefer a specific model, bring your own television or entertainment system. This can help with relaxation and keeping up with favorite shows or movies.
A computer or tablet is a useful tool for staying connected virtually, especially for family visits or online activities. Many assisted living communities offer internet access, so having a device allows you to remain engaged and participate in activities that may not be available in person.
4. Organizational Tools
Keeping your living space organized will help you feel more settled and comfortable in your new home.
Storage solutions are essential when moving to senior care with a smaller space. Consider the following to keep personal items neatly stored:
- Packing baskets
- Bins
- Organizers
With limited space, efficient organization can help prevent clutter and make the room feel more spacious.
Also, clearly label your medications, clothing, and personal belongings to ensure that everything is easily identifiable. This can also help prevent confusion, especially if other residents or staff need to access these items.
Using a daily planner or calendar can help you stay on top of appointments, activities, and events in the community.
Bringing a notebook or journal is another good organizational tool. It can be used for personal reflections, to jot down important information, or to stay connected with family and friends. Writing can also help you document your new experiences and memories while improving your emotional wellness.
5. Items to Leave Behind
Some things simply won't be needed in your new space, so you'll need to begin downsizing for assisted living.
Excess furniture is one of the items you can likely leave behind. Before the move, check with the community about what furniture they provide and what you can bring. Large, bulky furniture such as extra couches or tables may not fit or be necessary in a smaller room.
Large appliances, like extra refrigerators or bulky appliances, are also likely to be unnecessary. Communities often provide these items, so make sure to remove any redundant appliances before the move.
Excessive clothing or personal items should also be minimized. Focus on packing only what is essential for daily wear. If you have more clothing than space allows, consider donating or storing items that are not needed immediately.
Finally, leave behind sharp or hazardous items that could pose a safety risk, such as:
- Knives
- Heavy tools
- Overly fragile items
This reduces the risk of accidents and ensures your space remains safe and manageable.
Looking for a Community? Come Visit Liberty Court
We hope this senior relocation tips guide helped you learn what to pack for your assisted living move. Here at Liberty Court, we know how anxious making the big move to an assisted living community can be.
That's why we do everything we can to make the process as smooth as possible. From coordinating with your movers to organizing social events to introduce you to other residents, you'll feel at home in no time. If you're ready to join our vibrant community in Dixon, IL, get in touch with us today.