Personal Effects and Supplies

Creating a Sense of Home

Moving from a lifelong home into a care facility is disorienting. Even in the best-case scenario, it’s a loss of familiarity and control. One of the simplest, most loving things you can do is help your loved one feel anchored in their new space—with thoughtfully chosen personal effects and supplies that evoke comfort, identity, and memory.

Bringing Comfort: Familiarity Reduces Anxiety

Studies and caregiver experience both confirm: familiar objects ease the transition into care.

Bring items that are emotionally grounding:

• Framed family photos or photo books
• Favorite blankets, pillows, or bedspread from home
• A cherished knick-knack or figurine
• Decorative items they always loved—a table lamp, wall art, a clock
• Books, puzzles, or magazines they enjoyed flipping through

Avoid cluttering the room too much at first. Choose what is meaningful, not just decorative. And if memory issues are present, keep the environment calming and simple.

Clothing: Keep It Practical, Organized, and Seasonal

Rather than moving in the entire wardrobe:

• Start with a capsule wardrobe of versatile, comfortable clothes appropriate for the current season
• Leave formalwear and specialty items in storage unless specifically requested
• Bring a variety of shoes, including easy-on slippers and safe walking shoes
• Label all clothing clearly—many facilities offer laundry services that could misplace unmarked items
• Store extra clothing at home or in labeled bins for future seasonal swaps or replacements

Some facilities have communal clothing closets for emergencies, but your loved one will appreciate wearing their own clothes—familiar in feel and scent.

Freedom to Personalize: Ask What’s Allowed

Many facilities, particularly in Mexico, allow for a surprising level of room personalization. Ask about:

• Bringing your own furniture—bed, chair, nightstand, or bookshelf
• Hanging art on the walls (use safe, secure mounts)
• Throw rugs, curtains, or decorative lighting
• Personal TV or audio players (Bluetooth speakers for music therapy can be especially helpful)

Ensure everything is safe and easy to clean. Avoid heavy rugs that might create tripping hazards or anything with high sentimental value that might get damaged or lost.

Essential Supplies: What to Expect & Restock

Even once settled in, your loved one will need regular replenishment of items like:

• Glasses and hearing aids
• Footwear—slippers wear out quickly
• Incontinence products or hygiene items
• Daily care products—lotion, shampoo, toothpaste, etc.
• Seasonal clothing as weather shifts

Most facilities can manage restocking as part of care—but you may also prefer to handle this personally. It’s worth discussing during admission how these supplies will be managed, billed, and tracked.

Ongoing Thoughtfulness: Little Gestures Matter

Your loved one’s space doesn’t have to be static.

• Bring a small bouquet of flowers, new photos, or seasonal décor when you visit
• Rotate items occasionally to keep the environment stimulating but not overwhelming
• Celebrate holidays and birthdays with small, room-friendly decorations or cards
• Consider a memory board for those with dementia—photos labeled with names, stories, and places

These small acts reinforce connection, identity, and dignity—and they bring joy.

Final Thought: Make It Theirs

At the end of the day, this room is not just where they will sleep—it’s where they will live. A thoughtfully prepared space signals: You are seen. You are loved. You belong here.