Is your loved one moving into an assisted living community? If so, it’s important that you offer your support in easing their transition, because moving into an assisted living community can be a big change for them! By creating a checklist of items for your loved one’s move into an assisted living community, you can help them to make their move a less stressful endeavor, helping them get one step closer to a more productive and independent lifestyle. Don’t know where to start? Here’s our checklist for transitioning into assisted living in Morganton, NC!
Downsizing
Assisted living offers the same homey atmosphere but without all of the hard work that goes into making it feel comfortable. Assisted living neighborhoods’ floor plans are usually smaller in scale and simpler, making them more low-maintenance spaces. Furthermore, the community team regularly conducts housekeeping services to keep residents’ living environments clean and well-kept. Hence, try to encourage your loved one against hoarding items, and to downsize instead to have a fresh start in their new home.
Adaptive Devices
One of the most common reasons why older adults move into assisted living communities is because they require help with daily tasks due to physical limitations. For the same reason, mobility device usage is common among older adults such as your loved one. While your loved one’s assisted living community is likely to already have some accessibility features such as grab bars and disability-friendly pathing, they could always use some extra help. If your loved one relies on certain devices such as walkers and canes to maintain independent movement and action, don’t forget to pack said devices beforehand, as they’ll be a great source of reassurance.
Necessities
You shouldn’t forget the essentials when your loved one’s moving. Necessities tend to vary from person to person, so do discuss with your loved one what items they need to have in their new living space. Furthermore, your loved one’s assisted living community may already provide said essentials as part of the monthly rate, so don’t forget to check their list of amenities offered. Items your loved one may consider must-haves may include:
- Eyeglasses
- Hearing aids
- Medication
- Personal toiletries
- Religious paraphernalia
Clothing
Your loved one will most likely have to downsize their wardrobe as well when they move into their retirement community. Since it’s not possible to take every single clothing item with them when they relocate, it’s important to pick out versatile clothing items that can be worn in various seasons and occasions. For example, we recommend packing:
- Undergarments
- Sleepwear
- Formal wear
- Walking shoes
- Inside shoes
- Lounge clothing
- Winter jackets
- Indoor jackets
Others
Depending on your loved one’s lifestyle, there may be other considerations you need to make to ensure your loved one can relocate comfortably. For example, if they own a pet and their retirement community has pet-friendly policies, you’ll need to account for pet food, bedding, and so on. If your loved one drives, make sure to ask their community about parking, snow and ice removal, and other car ownership-related questions.
Looking for a retirement community for your loved one to enjoy their golden years in? Learn more about our excellent Assisted Living program!
