Before arrival
- Share routines and preferences with staff
- Prepare the room before the resident arrives
- Use familiar bedding and artwork
- Remove moving boxes and clutter
- Confirm medications and dietary needs
First day
- Introduce key staff members
- Show the bathroom and call system
- Offer a familiar meal or snack
- Keep explanations simple and reassuring
- Avoid an overly long goodbye when staff advises against it
First week
- Confirm clothing and personal items are labeled
- Ask about sleep, meals, and participation
- Adjust furniture or lighting if needed
- Bring only a few additional items at a time
- Stay in communication with the care team
Important: Keep medications, legal documents, identification, jewelry, cash, and irreplaceable valuables with the family. Do not place them in the moving truck.
