What to Pack (and What to Leave) When Moving to a Senior Facility
A Helpful Moving Checklist for Families and Residents
Moving to a senior living facility is a major life transition. Whether the move is to independent living, assisted living, or memory care, packing can feel overwhelming for both seniors and their families. Choosing what to bring—and what to leave behind—requires balancing comfort, practicality, and space limitations.
At ElderLink, we’ve helped hundreds of families navigate this transition with ease. To simplify your move and reduce stress, we’ve put together this helpful guide: what to pack, what to skip, and how to make the process smooth and meaningful.
Understanding the Space
Before packing, it’s essential to understand the size and layout of the new living space. Most senior living apartments or suites are smaller than a family home. Many daily services—like meals, laundry, and housekeeping—are already provided, so there’s less need for duplicate household items.
Ask the facility for:
- A floor plan with measurements
- A list of provided furniture (some rooms come furnished)
- Community guidelines on what’s allowed (some restrict appliances or large furniture)
Once you have this information, it’s easier to decide what to bring for both function and comfort.
Packing Essentials: What to Bring
Here’s a checklist of must-have items to pack for a successful transition.
Clothing
Bring comfortable, season-appropriate clothing, but don’t overpack. Storage space is limited, so aim for enough for 1–2 weeks, plus a few extras.
- Casual everyday wear
- Dressier outfits for social events or outings
- Pajamas and slippers
- Sweaters or cardigans (layers are great for varying indoor temps)
- Undergarments and socks
- Comfortable shoes (including non-slip options)
- Outerwear (coat, hat, gloves if needed)
Label items if laundry is done by the facility.
Toiletries and Personal Care Items
Most facilities allow residents to use their preferred personal care products.
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss
- Hairbrush or comb
- Shampoo, conditioner, body wash
- Razor and shaving cream
- Lotion, deodorant, lip balm
- Hearing aids, glasses, dentures and cases
- Makeup and grooming tools, if used
- Towels and washcloths (if not provided)
Medications and Health Supplies
Pack all prescribed medications and any over-the-counter products used regularly.
- Medications in original containers
- Pill organizers (if used)
- Copies of prescriptions
- Medical devices (CPAP machine, walker, cane, etc.)
- Health insurance cards and medical contact information
Some facilities manage medication distribution—check policies in advance.
Important Documents
Keep important documents in a clearly labeled folder or secure file.
- ID cards (driver’s license, state ID)
- Health insurance and Medicare cards
- Power of attorney or advance directive
- Emergency contact list
- Legal documents (will, DNR orders, etc.)
- Bank account or insurance info (if needed)
Make copies to leave with a trusted family member.
Comfort and Personal Touches
This is a home—not just a room. Bring items that provide familiarity and emotional comfort.
- Favorite throw blankets or pillows
- Framed photos of loved ones
- Personal artwork or mementos
- Religious items (cross, prayer book, etc.)
- Hobbies or crafts (knitting, puzzle books, etc.)
- A small TV, clock, or radio
- Plants (if allowed)
Personal touches can ease the emotional transition and help residents feel more settled.
Small Furnishings and Decor
Depending on space, consider bringing a few personal furniture pieces.
- Recliner or favorite chair
- Small bookshelf or nightstand
- Reading lamp
- Wall art (lightweight and easy to hang)
Check with the facility before bringing large or heavy items.
What to Leave Behind
As tempting as it may be to pack “just in case,” overpacking can create clutter and stress. Here’s what you likely don’t need to bring:
Large Furniture
Beds, sofas, and large dressers often won’t fit—and may already be provided.
Full Kitchenware
Senior facilities provide meals and snacks, so full kitchen sets, appliances, and large cookware usually aren’t necessary. A few personal items like a favorite mug or small dish are fine.
Excessive Clothing or Shoes
Storage space is typically limited. Avoid packing clothes that are rarely worn, out of season, or difficult to put on.
Duplicates and Backups
One or two of each item is usually enough—multiple versions (e.g., five pairs of scissors or ten coffee mugs) only take up precious space.
Valuables or Irreplaceable Heirlooms
It’s best to keep high-value or sentimental items like jewelry, cash, or rare collectibles in a safe location outside the facility. Even secure communities may not guarantee against loss or theft.
Hazardous Items
This includes:
- Candles or open flame devices
- Space heaters or extension cords (may be restricted)
- Cleaning supplies (often provided by staff)
Check the facility’s safety and fire policies before packing.
Tips for a Smooth Moving Day
Transitioning to senior living isn’t just about logistics—it’s about emotions, too. Here are a few tips to make the moving day positive and smooth:
- Pack Early and Slowly: Begin sorting and downsizing a few weeks in advance. This allows time for thoughtful decisions and avoids last-minute stress.
- Involve Your Loved One: If you’re helping a parent or spouse move, include them in packing decisions. Respect their preferences and memories.
- Create a “First Day” Bag: Pack a small overnight bag with essentials for the first 24 hours—change of clothes, medications, toiletries, snacks, and personal comfort items.
- Decorate Quickly: Set up the new room to feel familiar from day one—hang photos, unpack favorite bedding, and arrange furniture like home.
- Be Present Emotionally: Expect a mix of emotions. Offer reassurance, listen actively, and allow space for feelings to surface.
Packing for a move to a senior living community doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right plan—and a focus on comfort, simplicity, and emotional well-being—you can help yourself or a loved one settle in with ease.
At ElderLink, we’re more than just a place to live—we’re a place to belong. Our compassionate team is here to guide every step of the transition, including move-in support and personalized room setup advice.
If you’re preparing for a move, reach out to our team for checklists, floor plans, and personalized packing tips tailored to your community.
