Moving to an assisted living community allows seniors to maintain their independence while receiving the help and care they need to live healthy, happy lives. Assisted living facilities will provide meals, transportation, help with personal care and medications, and assistance with routine chores like cleaning, meal prep, and laundry, so residents can typically downsize substantially. Read on to find out about five things no senior moving to assisted living should forget.
Favorite Furniture
The apartments and suites available at assisted living communities typically come unfurnished, so new residents will have to bring their own furniture. This often includes a favorite sofa or chair, small tables or nightstands, lamps, bedding, and folding chairs for guests. Most seniors find that it's easier to settle into their new apartments and routines if they make the new space feel like home, but that doesn't mean they have to bring everything.
Try to identify furniture that has sentimental value. It's typically not possible to bring every furniture item from a large house, so leave behind large, bulky items and focus on furniture that is a better fit for a smaller space. Those who haven't picked an assisted living community yet can learn about one that offers ample space and allows residents to bring their own home furnishings and decor just by going to mcknightplace.com.
Enough Clothing
There should be enough space in the closet to accommodate a full wardrobe. Bring plenty of comfortable clothing, including pajamas and jeans, but don't forget to pack at least one formal outfit for special occasions. While fashion isn't the top priority for most seniors, there's nothing wrong with expressing personal style or wanting to look one's best.
There's no need for new residents to change their old habits when it comes to clothing. Personal care assistants will be available to help those who are starting to have trouble dressing themselves deal with any mobility issues that are getting in the way.
Personal Decor
Set aside the family photographs, art, and knick-knacks that hold the most sentimental value but leave behind valuables or store them at a family member's house. Although assisted living communities typically run background checks on their employees and residents can always lock their doors, many people find that the extra stress of worrying about cherished collectibles, antiques, and other valuables overrides the benefit of taking them along to appreciate them more often.
Entertainment Items
The type of entertainment items residents should bring depends on their personal preferences. Those who love watching old movies should bring a TV and a VCR or DVD player, while residents who enjoy painting might prefer to bring canvases and an easel. Bringing a few books is always a good idea, as well.
Toiletries and Medications
New residents should bring their daily medications along with a medication sheet. It's usually a better idea to ask about toiletries since some facilities provide things like toothbrushes and toothpaste, shampoo, lotion, or razors to their residents as needed. People who have specific preferences regarding personal care items are better off doing some shopping in advance.
The Bottom Line
Moving to an assisted living community will simplify the daily hassles of life so that seniors can focus on enjoying their time. Since it will be home for the foreseeable future, bring along everything required to make it feel that way. Leave everything else, though, especially when moving from much larger accommodations.