Making a Move to Senior Living. What Do I Need to Bring?

Written by: Janelle Meyers, LALD, CSA

You have made the major decision on moving to senior living. Two frequent questions people ask are,  “What do I need to bring?” and “What will be provided for me?” In this issue, let’s focus on the physical furnishings and other things that will make your apartment feel more like home.

Furniture

Whether you are moving to independent living, assisted living or memory care you will need some furniture. How much you need to bring will vary based on the size of your living space. Here is a basic list that everyone needs:

• Bed
• Dresser
• Nightstand
• Television
• Favorite chair or small sofa
• Lamps
• Table and chairs

When it comes to beds, most people know what they like and prefer to sleep in what is comfortable for them. Will my king size bed fit?   Maybe.  Queen beds typically do but a larger bedroom is needed for a king size.  Many clients order a new bed that is smaller and have it delivered.

People often ask if hospital beds are provided by the facility when care is needed, and the answer is maybe. Residential care homes and some memory care homes will supply a hospital bed.  If you want one and it is not provided by the facility Medicare will sometimes cover a portion of the cost when there is a medical need.  Hospital beds are expensive to purchase, and some suppliers offer a rental option.

The other items listed above are things that most senior living residences will not provide.  Most people have these in their present homes.  If your new apartment has a kitchen, you may need a table and chairs or stools for the kitchen island.  For apartments that are larger like a one or two-bedroom or those with a den require more furniture.

It is a good idea to bring less and then add more items later.  This is especially true when moving to assisted living or memory care.  The space will likely be smaller and since you are downsizing you will not need as much stuff.  Many senior housing communities will offer to hang a flat screen television, sometimes for a fee.   This can save space in the apartment.

Linens

• Sheets
• Blankets
• Comforter
• Towels
• Shower curtain.
• Pillows

Just like in your own home, you need to bring linens to your senior living residence.  In assisted living, apartments usually have a washer and dryer. Having at least two sets of sheets for the bed is recommended.  This way when one set is in the washer the other can go onto the bed. Bath towels, hand towels, kitchen towels and face towels will also be needed. You may want to express your style with a fancy shower curtain or matching bed set. Most apartments will have some type of window covering.  You can upgrade to your own preference at your expense.  In assisted living and memory care area rugs are discouraged. This is because they can contribute to a person falling or tripping on the rug. When using a walker, it can get caught on the rug and make it risky to have.

Décor

Plan to personalize your new apartment. Yes, you can hammer nails into the walls! Consider bringing:

• Art
• Family photos
• Mirrors
• Shelves

When I worked at an assisted living in Minneapolis one resident moved her whole collection of beanie babies with her. You will know what is important to have around you that makes you feel comfortable.  Your favorite things help your new home feel like home.  Do not be afraid to express your personality and make the space your own.

Personal Items

People move into assisted living because they need care. In this case, other personal products might be needed. Incontinence products could be one of those items. Personal care products are not usually provided. This is because everyone is an individual. If a facility provides personal care products you may not have a say in what they purchase. When a senior living has a shared laundry room, they might provide detergent for washing. If you want a specific detergent, you will need to buy it. And you will also need toiletries for personal care.

• Shampoo and conditioner
• Body wash
• Razor
• Shave cream
• Laundry detergent
• Dish washing liquid
• Toothpaste

To conclude, if you need it at home, you are going to need it when you’re moving to a senior housing community. Once you have chosen an apartment you can ask for a floor plan. This is helpful in determining what furniture will fit before you get there. Remember, less is best. You can always add a piece or two later. It is harder to part with something once it is in the apartment.

Tune in for next month and learn about what documents you need to have ready before your move. If you have a question about senior housing, you can email Janelle Meyers at janelle@choice-mn.com  We would love to hear from you.