Assisted Living Move-in Checklist

Packing and preparing to move a loved one into an assisted or independent living community can be an emotional time for all family members involved. However, with some information from the community — including what items are already provided, specifics on space and any restrictions — and this handy checklist, moving day can become an exciting part of the loved one’s next phase in life.

Typically, the following are items that a new resident in an assisted living home will need:

Furniture

• Bed/linens
• Nightstand
• Seating options such as a small couch or comfortable chairs
• Small kitchen table
• Dresser

Housewares

• Mini fridge
• Microwave
• Pots/pans
• Plates, bowls, glasses and utensils for every day use
• Coffee maker
• Towels — for kitchen and bath
• Clothes hangers
• Trash cans (one for the kitchen, and two smaller ones — for the main living space and bathroom)

Personal Items

• Clothes — including two week’s worth of undergarments and socks, bathrobe, bathing suits, items for layering like sweaters, casual/comfortable daily wear with “dressier” outfits for social occasions and dinner.
• Toiletries — comb/brush, face wash, toothpaste/toothbrush, body soap, shave cream, lotion, etc.
• Medication
• Photo books/mementos
• Small storage unit, file or mini safe for special items (Note: it is recommended not to bring expensive jewelry or other such valuables that are not used regularly)

Cleaning Supplies

Even if the community has cleaning services, some supplies are needed for daily housekeeping such as:

• Dish soap
• General surface wipes
• Window cleaner
• Anti-bacterial kitchen/bath cleaner
• Laundry detergent/basket
• Dusting cloths

Entertainment/Just for Fun

• Books
• Laptop or tablet
• TV
• Music
• Hobby supplies such as cards, knitting needles/yarn, or sporting goods

At Fellowship Square, additional items are kept on-hand in case a new residence does not have access to them, including:

• A bed, 36 inches wide or larger, consisting of at least a frame and mattress that is clean and in good condition
• Clean linens such as mattress pad, sheets large enough to tuck under the mattress, pillows, pillow cases, bedspread, waterproof mattress covers as needed, and blankets to ensure warmth and comfort for each resident
• A bedside lamp that provides light for reading
• All rooms also feature a closet, providing storage space for clothing, etc.

Making sure a loved one is prepared to move into their new assisted living home is not complete until they are mentally ready. While a move of this kind can cause the individual some apprehension, helping them feel comfortable in their new surroundings is paramount. This can be accomplished by ensuring the loved one has been introduced to the staff and residents of the assisted living community. Spending time with your loved one exploring the grounds and helping them understand the “lay of the land” can also ease them into their new home.