Making the decision was hard, and you’ve chosen the best. Your loved one will be moving to a Golden Bell Assisted Living Residence. The goal is to make this transition as stress-free as possible. Careful consideration of what possessions should be taken and what should be left behind goes a long way to ensuring a successful transition. Whether your loved one is leaving their house or your home, or moving in directly from the hospital, at some point downsizing will come into play.
Downsizing 101
Moving, in general, is a Herculean task, and your loved one will certainly be emotional and overwhelmed at the prospect of the upcoming move and relinquishing their independence. Work with them, in manageable blocks of time, so that they do not become resentful and so they are able to keep their sense of control over belongings.
At most assisted living facilities, furniture is not provided. Establish what major furniture pieces will fit into the new living space. A bed and mattress, dresser, nightstand(s), and bedside lamps are items to be brought. (Remember to pack all the bedding and pillows.) Consider the floor plan and dimensions of the rooms and arrange to sell, pass on to relatives or donate all furniture that cannot be moved to the new residence. A sofa, favorite chair(s), end tables, lamp(s), coffee table are items that will typically be accommodated in the residence.
While most meals will be consumed in the facility’s dining area, our residents still enjoy eating in their apartments. Items such as dishes, flatware, serving pieces, glasses, mugs, coffeemakers, and electric tea kettles will easily be accommodated in the kitchen area. Kitchen towels, basic cleaning supplies and a trash can are a good idea as well. Once you have selected the pieces to be taken, divide the remaining items into family/friends, sell or donate piles.
Packing List
Clothes – Closet space will be limited, so it’s important to pack only your favorite clothing items. Shirts and blouses, pants, shorts, pajamas, bathrobes, undergarments, sweaters, jackets and coats, socks, shoes (comfortable ones would be best), and slippers. Don’t forget the hangers.
Personal Items – Health-related items such as hearing aids, glasses/contact lenses, diabetic monitors, and any other device required to assist in everyday health maintenance need to travel to their new home. Health-related documentation, and financial paperwork should be packed. Having a small safe for these and other items such as jewelry is highly recommended. Toiletries should include denture care items, toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, brush, comb, hair dryer, deodorant, etc.
Home Décor – It’s important to make the new residence look and feel like home. Favorite chachka, sentimental pieces such as paintings, photos, clocks, vases, blankets and throws, pillows, and similar items are sure to bring the right touch of home.
Electronics – Computers, laptops, tablets, cell phones, television(s), and entertainment devices are all items to consider moving. They will help your loved one in having ready accessibility to enjoy their favorite programs, music, etc.
Entertainment/Hobby Items – Your loved one will want to continue participating in their favorite hobby. Knitting, crocheting, scrapbooking, model building, jigsaw puzzles, sewing items and machines – whatever they enjoy doing should be packed and included in the move.
A well-coordinated packing process will ensure a smooth move for your loved one in their assisted living facility. Remember it’s important for them to decide what they need to have surrounding them in their new home. Downsizing is typically emotional for everyone involved, but don’t let sentiment overrule your judgment. There’s no shame in seeking assistance for this task. Consult with a family member, friend, or a professional organizer to make unbiased decisions of what to keep and what to bring.
We are proud to welcome your loved one home to our Golden Bell Assisted Living Residences.
