What to Pack for Long-Term Care Move-In Day: A Complete Checklist

Making Move-In Day Less Overwhelming

Moving a loved one into a long-term care home is one of the most emotional days a family goes through. Having a clear packing list removes at least one source of stress — and helps you focus on what matters most: being present for your loved one.

Before you pack, contact the home and ask for their specific guidelines. Every facility has different rules about what's allowed, labelling requirements, and storage space.

Clothing (Label Everything)

Essential:

• 7–10 sets of comfortable, easy-to-put-on clothes (think elastic waists, front-opening tops, slip-on shoes)
• 2–3 sweaters or cardigans (facilities can be cool)
• 7+ sets of undergarments
• 2 pairs of non-slip footwear (one for indoor, one for outdoor)
• 1 warm jacket and 1 hat for outdoor time
• Nightgowns or pyjamas (3–4 sets)

Important: Label every item with your loved one's full name using iron-on labels or permanent marker. Laundry is done communally, and unlabelled clothing gets lost. Order labels in advance — companies like Mabel's Labels make iron-on name labels specifically for seniors in care.

Leave at home: Expensive jewellery, dry-clean-only items, anything with complicated fasteners (tiny buttons, back zippers).

Personal Care Items

• Electric razor (blade razors are usually not permitted)
• Hairbrush or comb
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Denture care supplies
• Moisturizer and lip balm
• Hearing aid supplies (batteries, cleaning tools)
• Glasses (and a spare pair if available)

Note: Most homes provide soap, shampoo, and basic toiletries. Check first before buying in bulk.

Making the Room Feel Like Home

This is where you can make the biggest difference for your loved one's adjustment. A room that feels personal and familiar reduces anxiety and disorientation.

Bring:

• Family photos in frames — 3–5 that show people they'll recognize. Label the back with names and relationships.
• A favourite blanket or throw pillow — something that smells and feels like home
• A small clock with large numbers (especially important for those with cognitive changes)
• A calendar they can see from their bed, with family visit days marked
• A few favourite books or magazines
• A small radio or music player loaded with their favourite music (music is powerfully comforting for people with dementia)

Leave at home: Valuable antiques, large furniture (most rooms are small), candles or anything with an open flame, space heaters, extension cords.

Documents to Bring on Move-In Day

• Health card (OHIP)
• Completed admission paperwork
• Power of Attorney documents (copies — keep originals at home)
• Medication list with dosages and schedule
• A list of allergies and dietary requirements
• Contact information for family members
• Family doctor's name and phone number
• Insurance information
• DNR or advance directive, if applicable

Practical Items Often Forgotten

• A small bulletin board or magnetic board for posting cards and photos
• Large-print playing cards or favourite puzzles
• A small plant (check if the home allows them)
• A TV (check if the home provides one or if you need to bring your own)
• An FM radio for residents who enjoy listening to broadcasts
• Stamps and stationery for residents who like to write letters
• A small lockbox for any personal items of value

What NOT to Bring

Most homes have restrictions on:

• Medications — the home manages all medications; do not leave personal supplies in the room
• Food that requires refrigeration — unless the room has a mini-fridge
• Electrical appliances — kettles, toasters, and heating pads are typically prohibited
• Valuables — homes are not responsible for lost or stolen items
• Alcohol — policies vary; check with the facility

After Move-In: The First Week

The first week is the hardest — for everyone. Here's what helps:

• Visit frequently but briefly in the first few days. Long visits can be exhausting for your loved one.
• Bring a familiar treat — a favourite snack or tea
• Don't rearrange their room without asking — let them maintain some control
• Introduce yourself to the PSWs who will be providing daily care. They are your allies.
• Share a brief life history with the care team — favourite topics, hobbies, career, pet peeves. This helps staff connect personally with your loved one.

How cAIrify Helps With the Transition

Families using cAIrify can use the document vault to store and share all move-in paperwork, coordinate visit schedules across family members, and track how their loved one is settling in through daily updates. When the care team starts posting resident updates, the whole family can stay connected — no matter where they live.

Moving day is hard. But it gets better. And staying organized and connected makes the whole family feel more at ease.