A Complete Checklist for Your Move to Senior Living: What to Pack
You have finally committed to a senior living community, and now you’re ready to move. Congratulations!
The next important step is to decide what to bring with you and what to leave behind in storage. Keep in mind that some retirement homes and assisted living facilities offer less space than you are used to.
Here’s a complete packing list for your move into senior living so you can enjoy the transition stress-free:
Weather-Appropriate Clothing
You should pack your clothing according to the weather patterns in your senior living community.
If you are moving close to your current home, you already know what each season tends to bring. If you are moving farther away, you may need to research that area’s seasonal weather patterns online.
For hot weather, make sure you pack plenty of cotton clothing that is light and breathable. Lighter colors will keep your skin cooler in the sun. Wearing lighter shades will help prevent you from becoming overheated.
In cold-weather regions, make sure you have all of the winter essentials, including:
Hats
Gloves
Scarves
Heavy winter coats
Mittens
Ear muffs
Sweaters
Turtlenecks
Layered clothing
These are must-haves when you move somewhere cold.
Sentimental Items
It’s important to feel at home and comfortable in retirement homes and assisted living facilities. For this reason, you should bring a few items that have sentimental value to you.
This can include family heirlooms, cards from loved ones, or scrapbooks with photos of your loved ones. These items are wonderful to look at when you feel lonely, homesick, and nostalgic.
Don’t forget any special blankets, pillowcases, and clothing items as well. You can make room in your new living space for these sentimental touches.
Kitchen Utensils
Many kitchen appliances are provided in retirement homes and assisted living facilities, but you may need to bring your own utensils.
Pack a modest amount of these items for your new living space:
Plates
Cups
Forks
Spoons
Knives
Mugs
Some of these items may even have sentimental value, so you can kill two birds with one stone!
Accessibility Tools
If you have cleaning supplies, bathroom supports, and other accessibility items, make sure you bring them to senior living. These convenience tools will help you with everyday tasks like cleaning, grooming, and cooking.
Senior living residences are generally accessible to accommodate mobility problems and disabilities, but it’s always a good idea to be prepared. Bring any devices that make your daily life easier.
Games and Entertainment
From crossword puzzles to novels, there are many options for entertainment. You will likely have ample free time to explore your hobbies and entertain yourself in senior living. Don’t forget to pack your favorite entertainment items!
Get Prepared for Your Move to Senior Living!
With this packing essentials list, you can transition into senior living with ease. Always check your community’s policies beforehand to see what items are forbidden for safety reasons.
You don’t have to fear the move to assisted living or retirement homes. Use this list to get started on your packing to-do list, and look forward to your brand-new lifestyle!