What to Bring on the First Day in Aged Care

Moving into aged care is a big emotional and physical shift. Preparing thoughtfully can make the first day much smoother - for both residents and their families. Here’s a practical checklist and insightful tips to help ease the transition.

Personal Items You Need to Pack

New residents often find that they need less than expected. Aim to bring:

• 7-10 days of comfortable, clearly labelled clothing (suitable for commercial laundry)

• Sturdy shoes and slippers

• Warm layers like a cardigan or jumper

• Personal grooming items (hairbrush, comb, clips)

• Bedding and comfort items (favourite pillows, doona cover)

• Meaningful keepsakes - photos, artwork, mementos to personalise the space

• Essential tech - mobile phone, TV (confirm facility-specific guidelines first)

• Mobility aids (walker, cane, etc.)

These items help create familiarity and comfort in a new and unfamiliar environment.

Essential Documents & Health Details

Make sure to bring:

• Medication list or health summary, including allergies and treatment notes

• Medicare, pension, and health insurance cards

• Legal documents such as Power of Attorney or Advance Care Directive, if relevant

• Contents insurance details (recommended for personal belongings)

Strong documentation ensures proper care and protects residents’ preferences are known.

What Facilities Will Provide

Facilities generally supply major necessities, including:

• Adjustable electric bed

• Bedside locker or table

• Over-bed table, wardrobe, and armchair

• Basic bedding and towels

Knowing what's already provided helps you avoid overpacking and prioritise personal comfort items.

Items That May Need Approval or Should Be Avoided

Before bringing certain items, check with your facility:

• Electrical appliances (e.g. electric razors, heaters, mini fridges)

• Manual recliners - many places only allow electrically controlled ones

• Extension cords or multi-adapter boards

• Large sums of money or valuable items (e.g. jewellery, collectibles) - usually discouraged due to safety risks

Facilities want your safety and comfort, so they may require advance approval or safe storage of certain items.

How to Make Their Room Feel Like Home

Settling into a new room is easier when it feels personal:

• Set up the room the day before, if possible

• Bring in a ‘favourite chair’ and beloved linens, photos, and knickknacks

• Arrange familiar scents like a scented lotion or diffuser

• Organise the room to reflect personal routine and identity - this fosters a sense of ownership and comfort.

First Day Essentials: Arrival Tips

To ease transition:

• Aim to arrive in the morning - implants a calm pace

• Arrivals often include:

  • A warm welcome by staff

  • Time alone to settle before assessments begin

  • Room orientation and vital health checks

  • Discussion of personal daily preferences (mealtimes, wake/sleep routines)

  • A tour of communal spaces and shared routines

• Activities and assessments tend to be paced over the first week to prevent overwhelm.

Supporting Emotional Wellbeing

No matter the planning, it’s normal for both residents and families to feel a swirl of emotions on Day One. Practical strategies that help:

• Encourage family to help personalise the space

• Allow quiet downtime after arrival to rest

• Take part or observe communal life gently - without pressure

• Maintain emotional connection through familiar routines, visits, and communication

These small steps make the transition less abrupt and more grounded. 

FAQs

Q: How much clothing should my loved one bring?
7-10 easily laundered outfits, labeled with their name, is usually sufficient.

Q: Can I bring a recliner or TV?
Potentially - but first check facility guidelines. Only electric recliners are often allowed.

Q: What paperwork should I bring?
Medication list, ID and Medicare/pension cards, legal directives like Power of Attorney, and any relevant insurance documentation are essential.

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Article posted:Oct 24, 2024
Category: Moving into aged care