Moving into aged care marks a significant life transition. You might find yourself staring at an empty suitcase, wondering where to start. This journey isn’t just about determining what to pack for nursing home—it’s about creating a sense of home in a new chapter of life.

At Aurrum, we understand the emotional and practical aspects of this transition. Preparation is key. It helps ease the move, ensuring residents feel at home straight away. For more guidance, explore our guide on Easing the Transition to Residential Aged Care.

To make things easier, we’ve created this comprehensive checklist. Every item serves a purpose, helping this new beginning feel familiar and welcoming.

 

Essentials for Daily Living

Packing the right essentials is a cornerstone of any successful aged care admission checklist. These practical items form the foundation of daily comfort and well-being, ensuring your loved one settles in with ease.

Clothing

Pack clothing that prioritises comfort and practicality. Select weather-appropriate garments that are easy to manage. Include casual outfits for everyday activities, along with sleepwear and non-slip footwear. These choices make dressing simpler and more comfortable.

Toiletries

Familiar hygiene products—like soap, shampoo, skincare items, and grooming tools—help maintain a sense of normalcy. Packing these small comforts recreates familiar routines in a new space.

Medications

Include all medications, properly labelled and up-to-date, with clear instructions. This ensures continuity of care and helps the care team coordinate health needs smoothly.

Documentation

Don’t overlook the paperwork! Bring essential documents such as medical records, legal forms (like power of attorney), and identification cards. These are critical during the admission process.

At modern care homes like Aurrum, you might be surprised by the thoughtful amenities already in place. From flat-screen smart TVs to pool tables, the environment is designed to feel like home. Residents also enjoy activities that promote independence and well-being, supported by the principles behind what is reablement in aged care. These features, combined with high-quality facilities, make settling in a positive experience.

Comfort and Personalisation Items

When it comes to aged care, comfort and personalisation go hand in hand. Thoughtful touches can transform a new environment into a warm, inviting space.

Sentimental Items

Family photos, memory books, and keepsakes are more than just objects. They carry meaning, bridging the past and present. These personal touches help residents embrace their new chapter while staying connected to cherished memories.

Bedding

Soft bedding, like pillows, blankets, or a treasured quilt, adds comfort and security. Familiar bedding makes the room feel like their own, helping to create a sense of belonging.

Small Décor

Bring a favourite piece of artwork, a potted plant, or a special lamp. These simple additions brighten the space and make it uniquely theirs. Aurrum’s thoughtfully designed facilities offer plenty of opportunities for personalisation.

Personal Electronics

A tablet for video calls, a radio for familiar tunes, or an e-reader for quiet evenings can maintain routines and provide entertainment. These small devices have a big impact on daily life.

 

Preparing for the Move – A Packing Checklist

Packing for aged care can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into steps simplifies the process. Use this moving into a care home checklist to ensure nothing gets left behind.

Clothing Checklist

  • Casual wear for everyday activities
  • Comfortable sleepwear and robes
  • Sturdy, non-slip slippers

Daily Essentials

  • Toiletries (soap, shampoo, toothbrush, etc.)
  • Hearing aids and glasses
  • Grooming tools

Seasonal Items

  • Winter coats, scarves, hats, and gloves
  • Lightweight clothing for warmer days

For more details, explore Aurrum’s Facilities to see how they accommodate residents’ needs.

 

Tips for a Smooth Transition to Aged Care

1. Visit the Facilities in Advance

Exploring the Facilities before moving day can ease anxiety. Aurrum’s welcoming spaces and staff create an environment where residents feel at ease right away.

2. Arrange a Welcome Celebration or Setup

Personalising the new space with family photos or sentimental décor can help residents feel at home. Hosting a quiet welcome celebration is another way to mark the beginning of this new chapter.

3. Seek Assistance During the Move

At Aurrum, experienced staff are ready to help with unpacking and room setup. They aim to make the transition smooth and comforting.

 

Transition Support from Aurrum Aged Care

At Aurrum, we understand that transitioning to aged care is a deeply personal journey. That’s why we’re committed to making this new chapter as welcoming and supportive as possible. From the moment residents arrive, our team works closely with families to ensure a smooth and positive experience.

Personalised Support for Every Resident

Our care philosophy is centred around building strong connections and understanding each resident’s unique needs. This approach helps create a nurturing environment where new residents can settle in comfortably. Our team also provides hands-on assistance during the unpacking process, helping to personalise living spaces with cherished items that make the room feel like home.

Lifestyle Program to Enhance Well-Being

One of the cornerstones of Aurrum’s care model for excellence is our Lifestyle Program. This program is thoughtfully designed to support residents’ physical, emotional, and social well-being. From engaging group activities to tailored reablement therapies, our goal is to foster a sense of purpose and community, empowering residents to enjoy a vibrant and fulfilling lifestyle.

Explore Our Services

Aurrum offers a range of services designed to meet the diverse needs of residents, from state-of-the-art facilities to compassionate, person-centred care. Families are encouraged to contact our team for more information, book a tour, or learn more about how we can help create a seamless transition into aged care.

FAQ’s About Packing for Aged Care

Are there specific rules about what to take when moving into a nursing home?

While most personal items are welcome, some restrictions may apply to larger electronics or furniture due to space and safety considerations. Aurrum encourages families to pack sentimental items and essentials that help residents feel at home. For residents interested in bringing pets, our Lifestyle Program includes pet therapy sessions, which provide the comfort of animal interaction.

Can residents bring their own furniture or larger personal items?

Yes, smaller furniture or cherished personal items like a favourite armchair may be allowed, depending on the room size and layout. Speak with the team at Aurrum to ensure your loved one’s belongings can be accommodated.

What documents are required for aged care admission?

Gathering the right documents is a vital step in the admission process. Medical records, a power of attorney, and identification cards are essential. Having these items ready and included in your aged care admission checklist helps ensure a seamless transition for your loved one.

How can I help my loved one settle into aged care after the move?

Adjusting to aged care can take time, but small actions can make a big difference. Personalising their room with sentimental items—such as family photos or a cherished quilt—can create a comforting space.

Arrange regular visits to provide familiarity and support. Encourage them to join Aurrum’s Lifestyle Program, which offers engaging activities designed to foster a sense of community and purpose. These thoughtful efforts can help your loved one feel at home more quickly.

What should I consider when packing seasonal or special items?

Be mindful of the climate and include weather-appropriate clothing such as winter coats or lighter summer outfits when thinking about what to take to a nursing home. Special items like a favourite quilt or family photos also help create a homely and comfortable space for your loved one.

Ready to Learn More About Aurrum?

If you’re just beginning the journey of finding aged care support, we’re here to help you explore what extraordinary, modern aged care truly means. At Aurrum, we pride ourselves on providing state-of-the-art facilities, compassionate care, and engaging programs that enhance residents’ lives.

You can contact us to arrange a tour of our aged care in our NSW location or Victoria location. Our dedicated team is ready to answer your questions and guide you through the process. Call us anytime at 1800 287 786—because we believe every resident deserves the best possible start in their new home.

Or, explore our Lifestyle Program to see how we create a vibrant and supportive environment that residents love.