Village on the Park Plano
Making the Move to Senior Living: A Room-by-Room Packing Guide

Moving to a senior living community is an exciting new chapter! It’s a chance to simplify your life and enjoy new experiences, free from the worries of home maintenance and daily chores. But packing for this transition can feel overwhelming. This room-by-room guide will simplify the process and ensure you bring all the essentials to your new home!

Bedroom:

  • Wardrobe Essentials: Pack your best clothing, including everyday attire, pajamas, and several nicer outfits for special occasions.
  • Sweet Dreams: Bring your favorite bedding (sheets, blankets, pillows, mattress pad) for a restful sleep.
  • Personal Touches: Don’t forget photos of loved ones, cherished artwork, and decor items that make you feel at home.
  • Nightstand Necessities: An alarm clock, a reading lamp, and a nightlight are always helpful.
  • Important Documents: Keep important documents like your ID, insurance information, medical records, and financial paperwork safe and easily accessible.

Bathroom:

  • Toiletries: Pack all your toiletries in one box, including shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothbrush, medications, and eyeglasses.
    • Pro-Tip: Don’t load this in the truck with everything else! Keep your toiletries box easily accessible on moving day, as you’ll need it right away.
  • Essentials: Remember to bring miscellaneous items like a soap dish, toothbrush holder, a non-slip bath mat, and a wastebasket.
  • Comfort Items: Pack bath towels, a comfy bathrobe, and non-slip slippers.

Living Room:

  • Comforts of Home: Bring throw blankets, lamps, and your favorite furniture, including a sofa or loveseat, recliner, coffee table, and end tables.
  • Entertainment: Pack your favorite books, magazines, games, or craft supplies. Don’t forget your electronics: TV, radio, laptop/tablet, and cell phone.
  • Cherished Memories: Family photos, treasured keepsakes, and any decor that brings you joy should find a place in your new living room.

Kitchen:

  • Dining In: A few sets of dishes, cutlery, and glassware will be useful for enjoying meals and snacks in your own space.
  • Small Appliances: A coffee maker or toaster oven can be handy for preparing simple meals or beverages.
  • Pantry Staples: Don’t forget your favorite coffee, tea, and snacks!

Tips for a Smooth Move:

  • Start with What You Need: Don’t sort your entire house into piles to keep or not. Instead, walk through your house and choose what you want, need, and have room for. Then, everything left goes!
  • Downsize with Purpose: Before you start packing, declutter and donate or discard items you no longer need or use.
  • Label Everything Clearly: Labeling boxes by room will make unpacking much easier.
  • Pack a “First Night” Box: Include essentials like toiletries, medications, a few changes of clothes, and a phone charger in a separate box so you have everything you need right away.

Ready to envision your new space? Schedule a tour at Village on the Park Plano! We’d love to show you around and answer any questions you may have about making our community your new home.