If you’re moving into retirement assisted living in Perdido, AL for the first time, there’s going to be an adjustment period. Whether it’s because of health issues or just wanting to live closer to family, moving into assisted living can be stressful–especially if you’ve never done it before. Fortunately, we have tips on what to pack when moving out of your home and into a senior-friendly independent living community!
Toiletries
Remember your toothbrush, toothpaste and floss. Remember your comb or brush. Remember your shampoo and conditioner. Remember your deodorant. And remember Q-tips, razors and other essentials you might need to maintain a clean shave! All of these items are small, but they can make all the difference in how you feel when you’re away from home for the first time in a long time—and it’s always good to look fresh-faced on that first day!
First Aid Kit
A first aid kit is a must-have. It’s also a good idea to bring along any medications (prescribed or over-the-counter) that you take regularly. Remember bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers and antihistamines for use in the event of an allergic reaction or minor injury. Bring tweezers, scissors and safety pins as well!
Medication
Many assisted living communities to have a medicine cabinet in each resident’s room. This can be handy because you don’t have to pack all of your medications and keep track of them on your own.
If your medication requires refrigeration, we recommend bringing it with you when you arrive at the community. The most important thing is to ensure that whoever is administering your medication knows what it is and when to take it!
Information Pamphlet
You can also find information about the community and its facilities. You should get a feel for what the team is like, who your neighbours will be, and what activities you can participate in. In addition to this pamphlet, other brochures may be available that highlight special events or services offered by the community.
Don’t Forget Your Clothes
One thing you’ll want to make sure of before you pack is that your clothes are easy to pack and unpack, as well as comfortable. You should also consider the weather type where you’ll live and pack accordingly. You want to avoid arriving at a place where it’s hot or cold, only to find out that all your clothes are too warm or too light!
If certain things are hard for you (like bending over) and may cause pain, then consider wearing them more often than others, so they’re always fresh and clean when needed.
Finally: remember shoes! No matter what kind of lifestyle community this is (high-rise apartment building or tiny house), everyone needs shoes!
Sunscreen
Sunscreen is essential for your safety in an assisted living community. If you love to spend time outdoors and want to protect yourself from harmful UV rays, apply sunscreen 30 minutes before you go outside. Reapply every 2 hours, even if you are not in the sun, and avoid the sun between 10 am and 4 pm when it’s strongest (i.e., this is when the UV index is highest).
Use a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher; anything less than that will not be strong enough to protect your skin from damage caused by UV rays. It’s also important to use an SPF lip balm or lip gloss during these times!
Conclusion
We know it can be overwhelming to plan a move into a new community, but we’re here to help you with all the details. We love that your loved one has made this decision, and we want to ensure it is as easy for them as possible.
