When you decide to move into a Senior Living Community, you’ll feel a lot of different things: excitement, hope, relief, maybe a little nervous. You might be wondering what to bring when moving into a senior living community. If you’re downsizing from a large home, these decisions can be even harder! Here are a few things to consider when you’re deciding what to bring when moving into a Senior Living Community.
Is your new apartment fully furnished? What does the community provide?
At Stellar Living, some apartments might come fully finished, while others are waiting for your personal touch. Check what your community provides in terms of furniture, toiletries, sheets, decor, etc. If your apartment isn’t furnished, what do you need to bring? A bed, dresser, sofa, and a small table and chairs for eating might be a good place to start. Will your existing furniture fit in the doorway and/or up the stairs to your new digs? If not, it might be time to start looking for new furniture pieces. Even if you’re moving into a furnished apartment, you might want to include folding chairs and perhaps a folding card table, for when guests come to visit. If you’re downsizing, check out these tips for small space living.
Will you have a kitchen?
Some senior living apartments have full kitchens, some have kitchenettes, and some don’t have a kitchen at all (but usually offer all day dining, so you won’t go hungry!). Make sure you know what is in your apartment. If you have a full kitchen, you should see if you need to bring your own silverware, dishes, glasses, and any cooking equipment. If your apartment has a kitchenette, you might need to bring a coffee maker, microwave and/or mini fridge. With apartments that don’t include a kitchen, you won’t need to worry about any of this. You can just enjoy the community’s dining amenities!
What will make you feel “at home” in your new place?
The most important thing about your new place to live is how it makes you feel. You want it to feel comfortable and homey, a space you enjoy spending time in. It’s also helpful to make the space feel more like your own. So what makes your current living space feel homey? For many people, personal items like framed photos of family, artwork, mementos from trips and travels, books, and houseplants can really make a house a home. Check out this post on how to make your home your happy place!
What design style do you prefer?
Do you like your home to feel open and minimalist? Or do lots of decorative items help you feel cozy and comfortable? Are you a fan of color, or more of a neutral lover? Consider bringing items with you that fit the style you want your apartment to have.
What do you need on a daily basis?
Finally, don’t forget to bring the essentials! Think about all the items you use on a daily basis, and make sure to bring anything the community doesn’t provide. This will probably include:
- Clothing (for all seasons) and hangers
- Toiletries, if not provided (hair brush or hair products, makeup, toothbrush and toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant, body wash, razor, body lotion etc)
- Electronic devices and charge cords (Kindle, phone, iPad, laptop)
- Any assistive devices you use regularly, like a cane, walker, reading glasses, or hearing aids
- Alarm clock
- Medications, including prescriptions, original packaging and instructions
You’re going to love living in a Senior Living Community. If you don’t have one in mind, check out Stellar Living’s many amazing communities located all over the country!
