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The Complete Assisted Living Move-In Checklist

ResiOnboarding is a Senior Living move-in software purpose-built for the senior living industry and retirement communities in optimizing their resident move-in process. Moving a parent into assisted living is rarely simple — this checklist walks through the paperwork, the packing, and the small comforts that turn a new unit into home, using the same framework operators rely on inside modern move-in software.

Most communities give families a generic packing list at signing. The list below is the one we wish every family had — built from hundreds of move-ins and the feedback of wellness directors, dining leads, and the residents themselves.

Paperwork & Documents

  • Signed residency agreement and a copy of the community handbook
  • Photo ID, Social Security card, and Medicare/insurance cards
  • Power of attorney (financial and healthcare) and living will
  • Physician's history & physical (typically dated within 30 days)
  • Current medication list with dosages and prescribing doctors
  • List of allergies, dietary restrictions, and food preferences
  • Emergency contact list (family, primary care, pharmacy, attorney)

Furniture & Bedroom

  • Twin or full bed with comfortable, familiar bedding
  • A favorite chair or recliner — comfort matters more than style
  • Nightstand with a bright, easy-to-reach lamp
  • Small dresser or wardrobe sized to the unit
  • Wall art, family photos, and one or two meaningful keepsakes
  • Non-slip rugs (only if approved — many communities discourage rugs for fall safety)

Daily Living Essentials

  • Two weeks of clothing labeled with the resident's name
  • Comfortable, non-slip shoes and slippers
  • Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, denture supplies, soap, shampoo
  • Bath towels, washcloths, and a shower caddy if shared bath
  • Eyeglasses (with backup pair), hearing aids, batteries, and chargers
  • Mobility aids: walker, cane, or wheelchair with documented fitting

Comfort & Familiarity

  • A favorite blanket or quilt from home
  • Family photo album or framed photos for the nightstand
  • Books, large-print magazines, or an e-reader
  • Hobby items: knitting, puzzles, sketch pad, music player with headphones
  • A small clock with large numbers and a calendar
  • Faith items: Bible, rosary, prayer book, or other meaningful objects

Move-In Day Itself

  • Arrive after the unit has been cleaned and inspected
  • Bring a small bag of immediate-need items (medications, glasses, change of clothes)
  • Plan to stay 2–3 hours to unpack the most-used items together
  • Take photos of the unit layout to help with orientation later
  • Meet the wellness director, dining lead, and at least one neighbor
  • Schedule the first family visit within 48 hours — short and reassuring

What to Leave Behind

Families almost always pack too much. The unit is smaller than the old house — and a half-empty closet is far less stressful than an overpacked one.

  • Expensive jewelry, large amounts of cash, or irreplaceable heirlooms
  • Duplicate or rarely-worn clothing — units are smaller than expected
  • Heavy or oversized furniture that crowds walking paths
  • Cleaning chemicals, candles, and small appliances unless community-approved
  • Loose throw rugs and extension cords — both are common fall hazards

Are you a community operator?

ResiOnboarding gives every new resident a phase-based digital checklist so families always know what's next — and your team never has to chase paperwork again.