# What to Pack for a Memory Care Move A practical packing guide for moving a loved one into memory care, covering essential comfort items, clothing, personal care products, labeling, and what facilities typically provide or restrict. Updated 2026-10-10. Also on the [web page](https://memorycarehomes.fyi/guides/what-to-pack-for-a-memory-care-move). # What to Pack for a Memory Care Move Moving a loved one into memory care is an emotional transition, and getting the packing right can make the room feel like home from the first day. The goal is to bring familiar, comforting items while following the facility's safety guidelines. Most communities provide a suggested packing list, but the guide below covers the essentials. ## Clothing Focus on comfort, ease of dressing, and laundry-durable fabrics. Bring: - Seven to ten complete outfits, including tops and bottoms that mix and match easily - Several pairs of comfortable, non-slip shoes or slippers - Pajamas or nightgowns, at least three sets - A lightweight jacket or sweater, even if the climate is warm, since indoor temperatures vary - Seasonal outerwear: coat, hat, gloves, scarf - Enough underwear, socks, and undershirts for at least a week - If needed, adaptive clothing with Velcro or magnetic closures instead of buttons and zippers Avoid loose-fitting robes or nightgowns that could be a tripping hazard. Label every piece of clothing with the resident's name, either with a fabric marker or sewn-in labels. Laundry can get mixed up quickly, and labeled clothing is easier for staff to sort. ## Personal Care Items Pack the everyday toiletries your loved one is used to: - Toothbrush, toothpaste, and denture care supplies - Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash - Deodorant - Moisturizer and lip balm - Comb or brush - Nail clippers or file (check if the facility prefers to handle nail care) - Electric razor if used at home - Incontinence supplies if needed Ask the facility what they provide. Some include basic toiletries in the monthly fee; others ask families to supply everything. Stick with familiar brands where possible, since a different scent or texture can be disorienting for someone with dementia. ## Comfort and Personalization These items help a new room feel like home: - A favorite blanket or quilt from home - Two or three framed family photos (avoid glass frames in favor of shatterproof acrylic or plastic) - A familiar bedspread or comforter in a color the person likes - A small clock with large, clear numbers - A radio or CD player for music they enjoy, with simplified controls - A memory box or small shelf for personal mementos - A cozy throw pillow from their own couch or chair Limit the number of objects. A cluttered room can increase confusion for someone with dementia. Rotate items from home over time rather than bringing everything at once. ## Items to Leave at Home Most memory care communities restrict or prohibit the following: - Valuable jewelry, watches, or heirlooms that could be lost or misplaced - Large amounts of cash or credit cards - Weapons of any kind, including pocket knives - Candles, incense, or plug-in air fresheners - Space heaters, heating pads, or electric blankets without prior approval - Irons, toaster ovens, or any cooking appliances - Extension cords or power strips, which are tripping hazards - Alcohol or unapproved medications - Latex balloons or certain fresh flowers that are safety or allergy concerns Ask for the facility's complete list of prohibited items before moving. ## Documents to Bring Keep a binder of important documents in the room or with you, not packed away: - A copy of the residency agreement and rate schedule - Emergency contact list - Health care power of attorney and advance directives - Medication list and pharmacy contact information - Insurance cards and Medicare or Medicaid ID - Primary care physician contact information - A brief life history or "All About Me" sheet that staff can use to get to know the person ## The First Week After move-in, visit at different times of day and notice what your loved one actually uses and what stays untouched. Adjust the contents of the room accordingly. Some communities suggest not hanging artwork or fully arranging the room until the second week, when you have a better sense of layout and the resident's comfort level. If something important from home is missing, do not replace it immediately. Give yourself and your loved one time to settle before buying new items. ## Questions ### How much should I bring on move-in day? Start with the essentials and a few familiar comfort items. Many facilities suggest bringing enough clothing and toiletries for one to two weeks and holding back most belongings until you see how the room is laid out and what the resident actually uses. ### What items are typically not allowed in memory care? Most facilities restrict items that pose a safety risk, including space heaters, candles, irons, toaster ovens, certain electrical appliances, and anything with accessible cords or sharp edges. Many also restrict valuable jewelry or large amounts of cash to prevent loss or confusion. ### Can I bring my loved one's own furniture? Most memory care communities encourage a few familiar pieces, such as a favorite armchair, a small dresser, or a bedside table. Ask the facility about size limits and whether they require fire-resistant materials. A familiar quilt or bedspread can do more for comfort than a full room of furniture.