Moving is never easy, whether to a new city or across the street. The transition can be difficult regardless of your circumstances or age. Older adults find it especially difficult to move as they have cherished belongings they have accumulated over the years. If your loved one is moving to a retirement community, planning will help to ensure everything goes smoothly. Following is a checklist for moving to a 55+ community in Mountain Park, GA.
Personal Items
Your parent will need personal items for everyday use. These are usually the last things to pack before the move. If your loved one has some favorite lotion, shampoo, or other products, make sure that you stock up on these items. Some retirement communities provide on-site amenities such as salons, allowing residents to get the care they need without traveling far for services. A list of personal items includes:
- Personal hygiene items
- Bath towels and washcloths
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Eyeglasses and hearing aids
- Walker, cane, or wheelchair
- Financial and legal paperwork
Furniture Pieces
While some people prefer to buy new furniture, many prefer having familiar items around them in their new residence. Before choosing furniture items, ensure that you measure all the pieces to ensure they fit in the new apartment. Some furniture items to pack include:
- A bed with bedding, sheets and a pillow
- Side table and lamp
- Small table and chairs
- Coffee table
- Nightstand
- Recliner or
- Small sofa
Décor Items
While you cannot bring everything, you can use décor items to recreate the atmosphere of your loved one’s home. It can help to ease the transition as you incorporate favorite items and keepsakes in the new space. Some décor items to pack include:
- Throw pillows
- Potted plants
- Artwork and framed photos
- Favorite mirror and clock
- Keepsakes and mementos
- Night lights or reading lamps
- Books and pictures
- Housewares
Entertainment
Retirement communities usually provide activities to keep the residents busy. However, your loved one may enjoy reading or watching a TV show at the end of the day. Having some entertainment in the comfort of the private suite can be helpful. Entertainment items to pack include:
- TV set with streaming device or DVDs
- Computer or Tablet
- Books and other reading materials
- Phones and chargers
- Hobby supplies
- Radio or audio system
- Playing cards or puzzles
- Office supplies and stationery
- Alarm clock
Clothing Items
Packing clothing items can be challenging as it requires major downsizing. Avoid the temptation to pack fancy outfits that will never be worn. Remember, you have limited space and pack only the essential clothing items. The clothing items to pack include:
- Jackets and coats
- Casual clothes, both tops and bottoms
- Pajamas and robe
- Hats, scarves and gloves
- Socks and underwear
- Bathrobe and slippers
- Exercises clothes
- Formal wear
- Comfortable shoes
- Storage containers and hangers
Avoid packing items that require repair or those that can be tripping hazards, such as area rugs. Remember, storage is limited, and you do not need to move boxes of unused items. Avoid packing multiple similar items, kitchen, and cooking supplies. You do not need to pack medications. Most retirement communities assist with medications to ensure safety. Start planning before packing for the move to a 55+ community in Mountain Pack, GA.
