Moving Into a Care Home Checklist
Everything you need for a smooth transition
Moving into a care home is a significant life change. Whether you’ve made the decision yourself or you’re supporting a loved one through the process, it’s completely natural to feel a mixture of emotions.
While there may be practical tasks to organise, preparing well can make the transition much smoother. A little planning can help reduce stress, ensure nothing important is forgotten, and make your new surroundings feel like home from day one.
Use this moving into a care home checklist to help you prepare for the move with confidence.
Before Moving Day
Confirm what’s included
Every care home is difference, so it’s worth checking exactly what is provided before you begin packing.
You may want to ask:
- Is furniture provided?
- Can you bring your own favourite chair or small pieces of furniture?
- Are bedding and towels supplied?
- What toiletries should you bring?
- Are laundry services included?
- Is clothing labelling available?
Having these details beforehand will help avoid unnecessary packing.
Visit the Home Again
If possible, arrange another visit before moving day.
Taking time to become familiar with the surroundings can make everything feel much less daunting. Walk around the communal lounges, gardens and dinning areas, and ask any questions you may have.
Meeting members of the care team beforehand can also help you feel more relaxed when the day arrives.
Create a Packing Checklist
Most people don’t need to bring everything from home. Instead, focus on the belongings that provide comfort, familiarity and make your room feel personal.
Essentials to pack:
- Comfortable everyday clothing
- Nightwear and dressing gown
- Slippers and supportive shoes
- Toiletries and personal care items
- Classes, hearing aids and chargers
- Mobile phone or tablet
- Favourite books or puzzles
- Important paperwork
- Current medications (if advised)
- Walking aids or mobility equipment
Remember to label clothing where requested by the care home.
Share Information About Yourself
Your care team wants to get to know you as a person, not just for your care needs.
It can be helpful to create a simple “About Me” folder that includes:
Bring Home Comforts
One of the easiest ways to settle in is by making your room feel like your own.
Consider bringing:
- Family photographs
- Favourite cushions or blankets
- Small ornaments
- Artwork
- A treasured clock or lamp
- Favourite books or magazines
These familiar items can make a new rooms feel welcoming and provide wonderful conversation starters with staff and other residents.
Share Information About Yourself
Your carers would like to get to know you as a person, not just for your care needs.
It can be helpful to create a simple “About Me” folder that includes:
- Preferred name
- Daily routine
- Favourite meals
- Hobbies and interests
- Music you enjoy
- Important family members
- Significant life events
- Any dislikes or preferences
This helps staff provide personalised care from the very beginning.
Update Your Address
Don’t forget to notify organisations of your new address.
Your checklist may include:
- GP surgery (if required)
- Bank or building society
- Pension provider
- Insurance companies
- Family and friends
- Magazine subscriptions
- Utility providers (if moving permanently)
It’s also sensible to ensure you have enough medication available during your transition.
Prepare Emotionally
Moving into a care home isn’t as simply as moving house, it’s a life transition.
It’s perfectly normal to feel uncertain, anxious or emotional about moving into a care home. Give yourself permission to experience those feelings.
Talking openly with family, friends or the care home’s team can help ease worries before moving day.
Remember that settling in takes time, and everyone adjusts at their own pace.
Once You've Moved In, Get To Know the Team
The staff at the care home are there to support you. Let them know about your routines, preferences, and anything that helps you feel comfortable.
The more they understand about you, the more personalised your care can be.
Explore Your New Surroundings
Spend some time finding your way around the home.
Knowing where the dining room, lounges, gardens and activity spaces are can help you feel more confident and independent.
Join Activities When You're Ready
Many care homes offer a varied programme of activities, entertainment and social events.
There’s no pressure to join everything immediately, but taking part when you feel comfortable can help you meet new people, continue favourite hobbies and discover new interests.
Stay Connected
Moving into a care home doesn’t mean leaving your relationships behind.
Regular visits, phone calls and video chats can help you stay close to family and friends. Many homes also welcome visitors and support residents to remain connected with their local community.
Your Moving Into a Care Home Checklist
Before moving day, remember to:
- Confirm what’s included in your room
- Visit the home beforehand
- Pack essential clothing and toiletries
- Bring meaningful personal belongings
- Label clothing if required
- Prepare important paperwork
- Update your address
- Ensure medications are organised
- Share your preferences and routines with staff
- Arrange regular contact with family and friends
A New Chapter
Although moving into a care home can feel overwhelming at first, many people soon discover new friendships, enjoyable activities and reassurance in having support whenever they need it.
With a little preparation and the right support, your new home can quickly become exactly that—a place where you feel comfortable, safe and truly at home.
Making the Right Choice
Choosing a care home is a personal decision, and the right choice will reflect your loved one’s needs, values, and lifestyle. Taking time to understand the options available can help ensure they feel supported, comfortable, and a part of a caring community.
