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Moving into Assisted Living Checklist

June 26, 2020

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After making the decision to move an aging loved one to an assisted living community, the next step is to plan for the actual move-in day. Planning a move is stressful for most anyone, but for seniors who are also faced with downsizing from a current home, parting with some cherished belongings and adjusting to a new way of life, it’s easy to see how the situation can quickly escalate.

This is why it’s important to be supportive throughout the moving process to help make the transition as smooth as possible. Loved ones need to recognize that moving to assisted living represents a fresh start at life. Their new community will ensure they’re enjoying as much independence as possible, all while receiving the right amount of care that allows them to truly thrive.

Items Needed When Moving to Assisted Living

The first step in planning the move is to ask the community for room dimensions or for a floorplan of the assisted living apartment. This way, you’ll have a good understanding of how much furniture is needed, as well as how much storage space is available for the resident’s belongings. This helps streamline the packing process so smarter decisions can be quickly made about what can come along on moving day. It’s important to keep in mind that while personal items like knick-knacks and photos are encouraged to liven up the living space, there will be less room to display them.

We’ve compiled an assisted living move in checklist that includes items you should plan on bringing with your loved one to his or her new home:

Furniture and Décor

  • Small sofa or chairs, end tables and/or nightstand
  • Bedding and linens, including comforter/quilt, blankets, pillows and throw pillows
  • Floor lamp and desk/table lamp
  • Television/radio
  • Framed photos and wall decorations
  • Keepsakes/knick-knacks

Clothing

  • Seasonal and comfortable clothing — jeans, sweatpants, sweaters and shirts
  • Robe and pajamas
  • Socks and underwear
  • Shoes and slippers
  • Coats, light jackets and sweatshirts
  • Formal outfits for special occasions

Toiletries and Personal Items

  • List of prescriptions and over-the-counter medications
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Soap and shampoo
  • Razors
  • Lotion or moisturizers
  • Make-up and hair styling products

Additional Necessities

  • Small appliances – coffeemaker, microwave, mini-fridge (if not provided by community)
  • Kitchenware — dishes, cutlery, glasses and mugs
  • Cleaning supplies
  • Trashcans
  • Alarm clock
  • Clothes hangers and closet organization or storage items
  • Favorite books and magazines

Comfortable Assisted Living Options from Franciscan Ministries

Franciscan Ministries offers joyful living in our assisted living communities for your loved ones. Residents enjoy a comfortable, home-like environment balanced with the right amount of support, allowing them to maintain the highest level of independence possible. To learn more about compassionate assisted living care from Franciscan, please contact us today.

Explore one of our assisted living communities near you.