June 23, 2021
Your Checklist for Moving into an Assisted Living Community
Planning a move to assisted living comes with lots of questions, and one that we get often from our residents and their families is about their belongings. If you’re wondering what to bring for senior living and which things will be provided, you’re definitely not alone.
Moving To Assisted Living Checklist
For seniors and their families seeking a moving checklist for senior assisted living, our team at Springpoint Living at Manalapan has compiled some of our best tips and advice to help you get started.
- Assess your floor plan.
After selecting a senior living community, you’ll probably shift into planning mode, but you may not be sure where to begin when moving to assisted living. A good place to start is by getting familiar with the floor plan of your new home. What’s the square footage? Will you have separate living and sleeping space? How much storage space is available?
Learning the answers to these questions will help you determine what personal belongings and furnishings you should plan to bring.
- Plan for personal and comfort items.
Most communities encourage residents to bring keepsakes like photos and other personal mementos that make their new home cozy and familiar. However, you should expect that the space will be smaller than your current home, and you may need to scale back to keep your new home inviting and free of clutter.
Also plan to pack a collection of your favorite books, magazines, and games so you’ll have options for entertainment on days you prefer to stay closer to home. Other personal effects like bedding, a TV, radio, alarm clock, and task lighting such as a floor lamp are all things you’ll want to bring with you to an assisted living apartment.
If your floor plan includes a kitchenette (which apartment-style floor plans at Springpoint Living at Manalapan do), you’ll want some kitchen basics, such as microwavable cookware, dishes, and utensils, as well as the items you need for your favorite foods and beverages, like a pitcher for iced tea.
- Determine which furnishings you’ll need.
The furniture you need will depend on the community. Virtually all communities will provide a bed, dresser for storage, and nightstand, but it’s always smart to verify exactly what will be in the residence. Some communities, including Springpoint Living at Manalapan, even offer the option of fully furnished residences for an easy and convenient move.
Some other furniture you might consider when you’re thinking about what to bring for your senior living apartment includes a favorite chair or loveseat, small end table, TV stand, and an extra dresser for storage. If space is at a premium, furnishings that do double-duty can come in handy, like a bench that provides storage as well as a place for guests to sit.
- Remember the practical essentials.
While you’re planning for the bigger aspects of your move, don’t overlook essentials like clothing, toiletries, and medication.
Pack enough climate-appropriate clothing to get you through a week or two between washing. Bring outfits that you can easily layer to stay comfortable, and remember outerwear like coats and snow boots. Pack comfy shoes suitable for going outdoors and taking part in community activities, along with slippers or house shoes for when you’re relaxing in your apartment. Don’t forget pajamas and a robe!
Daily grooming is an important part of maintaining your physical and mental health as you age. When you’re moving to a senior living community, you’ll want all your familiar products like toothpaste, shampoo, and soap to help you feel right at home.
Take It a Day at a Time
When you start planning what to pack for assisted living, start writing down the things you want to take and keep the list in a handy place. As you move through your normal routines, be conscious of the household items and personal possessions you’re using, and if you’ll need them in your new home, be sure to add them to the list. That’s a good way to make sure you don’t overlook smaller details like clothes hangers and disinfecting wipes to handle little messes.
Still have questions about moving to a senior living community? Contact us to schedule a visit and learn more about the person-centered care options available at this brand-new assisted living community in Manalapan, New Jersey.
