Is your loved one preparing to move into assisted living in Greer, SC? How do you ensure they have everything to be comfortable in their new home?
Supporting your aging loved one every step of the way is crucial when they are preparing to relocate to assisted living. This transition can be particularly challenging, as it often involves downsizing from a larger home to a more compact living space. Ensuring they have all the essentials while keeping their new home clutter-free is a delicate balance.
To help ease this process, we’ve compiled a packing list for assisted living, highlighting seven must-have items. Keep reading to discover this comprehensive resident packing guide and ensure your loved one’s move is as smooth and comfortable as possible.
1. Clothing
When moving to assisted living, you must pack the right clothes for your loved one. First, think about comfort and ease.
Pack soft, stretchy pants and loose-fitting tops, as they are easy to put on and take off. You should also include comfortable shoes with non-slip soles, which will help prevent falls.
Second, pack layers for the transition to assisted care. This will be helpful, as temperatures can vary in different rooms. Include a few sweaters or light jackets.
Third, nightwear is also important. Choose pajamas that are easy to manage. Don’t forget warm socks and a cozy robe.
Lastly, pack some personal favorites. A favorite scarf, hat, or handbag can make the new community feel like home.
2. Home Furnishings
Packing familiar furniture items is essential for helping your aging loved one feel at home. For instance, start with a comfortable bed that they are used to. Their favorite armchair or recliner is also a must-have, providing a familiar, relaxing space.
Two more key pieces are a small nightstand for their bedside essentials and a dresser for their clothes. Bring their favorite lamp to ensure they have good lighting.
A small table and a couple of chairs can make their new space feel like home and offer a spot for meals or hobbies. Here are some more assisted living essentials to consider:
- Bookshelf for their favorite books and photo frames
- TV stand if they enjoy watching television
- Small desk if they like writing or need a place for bills and letters
- Storage ottoman for extra seating and to store blankets or magazines
- Wall-mounted shelves for displaying cherished items without taking up floor space
3. Toiletries
When helping your aging loved one transition to assisted care, ensuring they have all the necessary toiletry items is essential. This packing list for assisted living basics should include everyday essentials that help them feel comfortable and clean.
Start with essential items like toothbrushes and toothpaste. Don’t forget soap, shampoo, and conditioner for their daily showers. Deodorant is also vital to keep them feeling fresh.
For your convenience, here is a simple packing list for assisted living toiletries to ensure you don’t miss anything. We’ve included the above and added some more for your benefit:
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Soap
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Deodorant
- Lotion to keep their skin moisturized
- Razor and shaving cream if they shave
- Hairbrush or comb
- Nail clippers for grooming
- Tissues and wet wipes
4. Medications
When helping your aging loved one move to assisted living, it is essential to pack all their necessary medications. This includes:
- Any daily vitamins or supplements
- Prescription drugs
- Over-the-counter medicine
Include a list of these medications, their dosages, and the times your loved one should take them. This list will benefit the staff at the assisted living community.
Many assisted living communities offer medication management services. This means trained staff will help your loved one take their medications on time and in the right amounts, and it’s essential to tell the staff about special medication instructions if your loved one uses this service.
For those who can manage their own medications, the community will allow residents to self-administer their medicine. In either case, having everything organized and clearly labeled will make the transition smoother and meet your loved one’s health needs.
5. Tech Items
Packing essential tech items is important when helping your aging loved one move to an assisted living community. Start with their phone and charger, as staying connected with family and friends will help them feel less lonely.
A Kindle or another electronic reading device is great if they love reading. These devices can hold many books, offer larger font sizes, and are easy to use.
A radio or a Bluetooth speaker can play their favorite music or radio shows. It helps to bring a bit of joy and normalcy to their new home.
Don’t forget a tablet or a laptop if they like browsing the internet, playing games, or video chatting. Pack all the necessary chargers and a power strip to keep things organized.
6. Hobby Items
Packing your loved one’s favorite hobby items can make the transition to assisted living smoother and keep them happy. Packing tips for seniors include bringing along things like:
- Reading glasses
- Books
- Crochet hooks or knitting needles
- Wool
- Diamond painting kits
7. Bedding and Towels
When helping your aging loved one move to an assisted living community, it’s essential to pack the right bedding and towels. First, bring a set of soft, comfortable sheets that fit their new bed. Most assisted living communities have twin or full-sized beds, so ensure the sheets match.
Pack a warm and lightweight blanket so they have options for different weather. A cozy comforter is also a good idea to keep them warm at night.
For the bathroom, bring a few sets of plush, absorbent towels. Include both bath towels and hand towels. Don’t forget washcloths for their daily washing needs.
Organized and Prepared: Your Packing List for Assisted Living
Packing for an assisted living community involves careful consideration to ensure a smooth and comfortable transition for your loved one. Focusing on these seven essential categories can help you create a well-prepared packing list for assisted living transition.
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Enjoy chef-prepared meals, wellness programs, and social activities tailored to enrich your life. Visit us today to experience why Terrabella Thornblade in Greer, SC, is the premier choice for exceptional senior living.
