Moving into an assisted living facility in Keller, TX, brings a lot of emotional baggage for loved ones. They’re probably downsizing from a loving home they’ve nurtured for several years to a smaller community and home where they’ll have to start over.
There are a lot of decisions to make: from what to pack and bring to the community to what you can afford to leave behind. After all, it’s not easy to pack your memories into boxes. This decision, however, does not have to be as tricky as it appears. Here are a few things to consider when creating a packing list:
Streamline Your Loved Ones’ Belongings
When assisting a loved one with a move, think practically. Because assisted living facilities are typically smaller, you will need to prioritize your loved ones’ belongings and bring only the necessities.
Of course, you may bring a few items of sentimental value, such as photographs, as well as entertainment items. However, given the limited space and potential hazards they might cause, some items should be left behind.
Check Community Rules
Understandably, you want to provide your loved one with everything they could need. However, assisted living communities may have specific rules or guidelines regarding the items you can bring. Most communities also have pre-determined floorplans and built-in furniture, so bringing additional furnishings may be unnecessary. Conducting this research before packing may be worthwhile to avoid disappointment later.
Review Storage Options
If your loved one’s home is a family home, they may have stored personal items for various family members over the years. Bringing these items will most likely not be possible due to the limited storage space in the community.
It is best to notify the concerned family members to collect their belongings before the move. If some items haven’t been picked up, it’s best to consider donating them or throwing them away.
Considering the above points, here are some items you should not bring into an assisted living facility for your loved one:
- Hazards: While some items may appear decorative, they may endanger the safety of a loved one. Throw rugs, for example, are loose ends that can cause slip-and-fall or tripping accidents. Similarly, electronic items such as heaters or electric blankets may cause more harm than good because they’re potential fire hazards. Instead, bring safe alternatives such as warm woolen blankets, comforters, or thermal wear.
- Open Flames: Items like candles or incense sticks can be dangerous and are usually prohibited in retirement communities. Aroma diffusers and essential oils can be safer alternatives.
- Multiple Items: We often buy more of the same items which we may never use. To avoid hoarding, limit yourself to what is necessary. For example, bring a special dinner plate instead of an entire ceramic dinner set.
- Heavy Furnishings: Keep in mind that your loved one will adjust to a new lifestyle in a new environment. This space will most likely have basic and necessary furniture your loved one can use. There’s no point in bringing bulky furniture that will take up additional space.
Quick Recap
Packing everything you or your loved one needs in their new home can be stressful. However, most assisted living facilities have everything they need to live comfortably. Still, don’t forget to bring your favorite possessions—and yourself!—once you move.
