Moving to assisted living: a checklist of what to bring and do

Before move day

• Get the apartment floor plan and measurements.
• Ask for the community's move-in packet and rules.
• Finish move-in paperwork and the care assessment.
• Bring the medication list and doctor's orders the community asks for.
• Set up phone, mail forwarding and any TV or internet.
• Label clothes and belongings with your parent's name.

What to bring

• Bed (if allowed), favorite chair, small table and lamp.
• Bedding, towels and a familiar blanket.
• Clothes for each season, comfortable shoes with good grip.
• Toiletries, glasses, hearing aids, dentures and chargers.
• Photos, artwork and a few keepsakes.
• A clock and calendar with large numbers.
• A small amount of spending money.
• Copies of ID, insurance cards, and power of attorney or advance directives.

What to leave

• Large furniture that won't fit.
• Most kitchen items, unless the apartment has a kitchenette.
• Valuable jewelry and important originals; keep these with family.
• Anything the community doesn't allow, such as space heaters.

The first weeks

• Set up the room before your parent arrives, if you can.
• Visit often at first, and join a meal or activity.
• Meet the care staff and share your parent's routine and preferences.
• Expect an adjustment period. See helping a parent settle in.

Questions families ask

Sources

• National Association of Senior and Specialty Move Managers (NASMM): FAQs