Pre-Moving Checklist For Seniors

The decision to move into a senior living community can be overwhelming for a variety of reasons – and for many, the packing process nears the top of the list.

From knowing what to pack and how much to bring, to even finding the motivation to start the process of organizing your belongings, this pre-moving checklist is here to help.

Before You Even Pack …

Take a serious inventory of the items you’ve accrued. Do you have three winter coats but only wear one? A shelf full of books you haven’t touched in years? Donate or sell what you don’t use.

It’s also important to think about the amenities provided by the senior living community. Will you have a coffee maker in your apartment? Will housekeeping iron your clothes as needed? How often will you prepare your own food versus eating in the dining room?

Moving provides a great opportunity to clear any clutter and get organized. Not ready to get rid of something but don’t need to bring it with you? Putting items into storage – even buying a storage bin or two to tuck away in a closet – can help you keep track of your items and relieve some of the anxiety around moving.

What To Bring

Now that you know what you have and what to expect at the community, it’s time to start gathering your stuff. Here are some tips for what to bring:

• Financial and legal documents: Having these matters in order before moving is crucial. Documents like a will and testament or living trust should be detailed out and stored somewhere safe. Other important information to bring with you includes any insurance information and emergency contacts.
• Household items: Aside from clothing, bringing other items from home like blankets, pillows and other bedding, towels and essential toiletry items, slippers, and other comforts can help you adjust to your new home.
• Personal items: Pictures of family and friends, small décor items that highlight your personal style and any keepsakes will all help to make your space feel like it’s truly yours. Entertainment items like games, a deck of cards, books and even a television set will help you enjoy your new surroundings – and make it more fun to get to know your neighbors.

For some seniors, packing makes the move to a community, even more, real – which can be overwhelming. Tackling your moving to-do list a little bit at a time can make the process easier and bring you one step closer to enjoying all the benefits your senior living community offers.