Deciding what to bring to assisted living in Bedford, TX for your loved one

September 28, 2021

The move to assisted living in Bedford, TX brings many benefits for your loved one. But it’s common to feel a little overwhelmed as you get ready to help your loved one move. Especially if they have lived in the same home for many years, downsizing can be hard. You may feel unsure what they need to bring to assisted living.

Given that moving takes some time and preparation, the sooner you start creating a plan of action, the better. By tackling scheduling, packing, and checklists, you can take some of the stress away from your loved one. And that can help everyone have a smooth transition.

Creating a schedule

Talking about a plan together with your loved one helps you both feel more in control of their move. Think through all the tasks that need to happen in the next several weeks. Then, start creating a schedule together. In general, taking on tasks one day at a time helps make things feel more manageable.

Some scheduling items to consider include:

• Contact moving companies early. Many movers will fill up fast on weekends. If you’re flexible on your move day, schedule it in the middle of the week.
• List out which rooms you’ll work on packing each week. Reassure your loved one that you’ll be there to help. Specifically, you may find it helpful to start with the least used rooms first and save those items your loved one uses every day for last.
• If you have special items or heirlooms going to other family members, put pickup days on the calendar.
• Decide if you want to host a garage sale for unneeded items.
• Schedule donations drop-offs. Some organizations may even come pick up items from your loved one’s house.
• Talk to your loved one about a way to say goodbye to their house, such as planning a special meal or having other loved ones over.
• Make plans if you’re selling your loved one’s old home. Put realtor visits, open houses, any need repairs, etc., on the calendar.

Staying organized while packing

Before you pack, think through how you’ll set up your loved one’s new home. Print out a copy of the floor plan and draw in furniture placement. You may realize an item isn’t needed in the new space. This will give you some clarity on what your loved one really needs to bring to assisted living.

After you have a plan for their new home, then start packing essentials and sorting out items that won’t make the move. During this process, the AARP says it’s helpful to label and organize into six groups: move, sell, toss, donate, up for grabs, and pass along.

Your checklist of essential items to bring to assisted living may include:

Furniture

• Bed
• Table for bedside
• Dresser
• Recliner/chair
• Side table
• TV
• Shower chair

Linens and household

• Waterproof mattress cover with zipper that covers the whole mattress
• Mattress pad
• Towels and washcloths
• Shower curtain and rings
• Bathmat
• Bedding, such as sheets, bedspread, comforter, blanket, and pillows
• Laundry items, such as laundry basket or hamper and spot remover
• Small trash can
• Paper products, such as paper towels, toilet paper, and tissue
• Hand soap

Personal care

• Dental hygiene items, such as toothbrush, toothpaste, or denture care
• Toiletries, such as body wash, shampoo, lotion, deodorant, and cologne
• Hair care, such as brush/comb/pick, hair accessories, or hair dryer
• Shaving items
• Incontinence items, such as briefs, wipes, cream, and bed pads
• Vitamins or over-the-counter medications

Clothing

• Undergarments and socks
• Comfortable shoes and slippers
• Robe and pajamas
• Housecoat
• Winter items, such as a hat, coat, and gloves
• 5-7 sets of casual, comfortable clothes for both warm and cold weather, such as shirts, pants, sweaters, or sweatsuits
• A couple of dressy outfits if desired, but in general, keep it comfortable

Decorative or special items

Avoid bringing too many keepsakes or expensive items. Instead, pick a few meaningful items that will make your loved one feel most at home. Put these special items in a box together and unpack them on your loved one’s first day, such as:

• Family photos
• A few small decorative items
• Books
• Items for favorite hobbies, like knitting
• Quilts or blankets

Here to make your loved one’s move successful

If you’re still unsure what to bring to assisted living, we’re here for you. Parkwood Healthcare can answer your questions about what to expect, services provided, and daily needs. We’re ready to make your family feel comfortable and at home. Contact our team today to learn more about moving to assisted living.