In the know.

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Moving to assisted living is an exciting new beginning, but deciding what to bring can feel overwhelming. The goal is not to fit an entire house into a new residence. Instead, focus on the belongings that provide comfort, support daily routines and make the new space feel like home.

Use this printable checklist to simplify packing for assisted living and prepare for a comfortable transition to Cornerstone.

Assisted Living Packing Checklist

Resident’s Name: ____________________________________

Move-In Date: _______________________________________

New Residence Number: _______________________________

Before You Begin

☐ Request a floor plan and room dimensions
☐ Ask which furnishings are already provided
☐ Review the community’s list of permitted items
☐ Measure large pieces of furniture
☐ Decide what to bring, donate, store or give to family
☐ Label clothing and personal belongings
☐ Photograph valuable or meaningful items
☐ Confirm the move-in date and arrival time

Furniture

Choose only the pieces that fit comfortably without creating crowded walkways.

☐ Bed and mattress
☐ Favorite chair or recliner
☐ Nightstand
☐ Dresser
☐ Small table and chairs
☐ Bookshelf
☐ Television stand
☐ Small lamp
☐ Other: ______________________________________________
☐ Other: ______________________________________________

Clothing

Pack comfortable, easy-to-wear clothing appropriate for the Texarkana climate.

☐ Everyday shirts
☐ Pants or skirts
☐ Undergarments
☐ Socks
☐ Pajamas
☐ Robe
☐ Comfortable, nonslip shoes
☐ Sweaters or cardigans
☐ Light jacket
☐ Winter coat
☐ One or two dressier outfits
☐ Exercise or activity clothing
☐ Hat or seasonal accessories
☐ Laundry hamper or basket
☐ Hangers
☐ Other: ______________________________________________

Personal-Care Items

☐ Toothbrush and toothpaste
☐ Dental-care or denture supplies
☐ Hairbrush or comb
☐ Shampoo and conditioner
☐ Soap or body wash
☐ Deodorant
☐ Lotion and skincare products
☐ Cosmetics
☐ Eyeglasses and cleaning supplies
☐ Hearing aids and batteries
☐ Incontinence products, if needed
☐ Tissues
☐ Other: ______________________________________________

Important Documents

Keep original documents secure and bring copies when appropriate.

☐ Photo identification
☐ Medicare card
☐ Insurance cards
☐ Emergency contact list
☐ Advance directive
☐ Medical power of attorney
☐ Financial power of attorney
☐ Long-term care insurance information
☐ Veterans benefit information, if applicable
☐ Funeral or final-wishes information, if applicable
☐ Copies stored with a trusted family member
☐ Digital backup of important documents

Bedding and Linens

☐ Sheets
☐ Pillows
☐ Pillowcases
☐ Comforter or bedspread
☐ Favorite blanket or quilt
☐ Bath towels
☐ Hand towels
☐ Washcloths
☐ Mattress protector
☐ Other: ______________________________________________

Decorations and Keepsakes

Select a few meaningful belongings that will make the residence feel familiar.

☐ Framed family photographs
☐ Photo albums
☐ Favorite artwork
☐ Small decorative items
☐ Family heirlooms
☐ Religious or spiritual items
☐ Awards or diplomas
☐ Military memorabilia
☐ Favorite clock
☐ Seasonal decorations
☐ Bulletin board or calendar
☐ Other: ______________________________________________

Activities and Entertainment

☐ Books
☐ Magazines
☐ Puzzle books
☐ Playing cards
☐ Favorite games
☐ Knitting or sewing supplies
☐ Craft materials
☐ Journal and stationery
☐ Television
☐ Radio or music player
☐ Tablet or laptop
☐ Headphones
☐ Mobile phone
☐ Charging cords
☐ Other: ______________________________________________

Kitchen and Snack Items

☐ Favorite mug
☐ Reusable water bottle
☐ Small set of dishes
☐ Drinking glasses
☐ Utensils
☐ Food storage containers
☐ Favorite snacks
☐ Napkins or paper towels
☐ Other: ______________________________________________

Items to Leave Behind

For safety and security, these items may be better left with family, placed in storage or donated.

☐ Oversized furniture
☐ Duplicate household items
☐ Unused clothing
☐ Large collections
☐ Expensive or irreplaceable jewelry
☐ Large amounts of cash
☐ Original legal documents not needed at move-in
☐ Throw rugs that may create a tripping hazard
☐ Candles or items with open flames
☐ Unapproved electrical appliances or extension cords
☐ Bulky seasonal decorations
☐ Other items prohibited by the community

First-Night Bag

Keep these essentials separate from the moving boxes and within easy reach.

☐ Comfortable change of clothes
☐ Pajamas
☐ Toiletries
☐ Eyeglasses
☐ Hearing aids and batteries
☐ Mobile phone and charger
☐ Important contact information
☐ Medications approved through the move-in process
☐ Favorite photograph or comforting keepsake
☐ Water bottle
☐ Favorite snack, if permitted
☐ Other: ______________________________________________

Final Move-In Check

☐ Boxes are clearly labeled
☐ Furniture measurements have been confirmed
☐ Important documents are secure
☐ Valuables have been inventoried
☐ First-night bag is easy to locate
☐ Family contact information has been provided
☐ Medication procedures have been confirmed
☐ Transportation has been arranged
☐ Utilities, mail and address changes have been handled
☐ The Cornerstone team knows the expected arrival time

Creating a Comfortable New Home

Packing for assisted living does not have to be completed perfectly in one day. Begin with the essentials and allow time to determine what else would make the new residence more comfortable.

Transitioning to assisted living is about more than moving belongings. It is an opportunity to create a welcoming home that supports safety, independence and meaningful connection.

At Cornerstone in Texarkana, Texas, our team is here to help residents and families prepare for a smooth transition. Contact us to learn more about assisted living at Cornerstone or to schedule a personal visit.

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