If you or a loved one needs to stay in a skilled nursing facility, it’s essential to be prepared. Packaging the right items for your stay can make your experience more comfortable and organized. This essential checklist will help you get started!
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Things To Pack for a Skilled Nursing Stay
Below are the essential items you should pack for your skilled nursing stay.
Toiletries
Toiletries are very important because they help you feel fresh and clean. Be sure to pack items like shampoo, soap, toothpaste, a toothbrush, deodorant, lotion, and any other personal hygiene items you may need.
Sure, these things might be available at the skilled nursing facility, but sometimes, you or your loved one might have favorite brands that make you feel more comfortable. Therefore, it’s always best to pack your own.
Medications
Medications are also very important to pack. This includes any prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, or supplements that you or your loved one takes regularly.
Make sure to pack enough for the entire length of your stay, plus a few extra days, just in case. You’ll also want to pack a list of all medications that you’re taking. This will be helpful for the staff at the skilled nursing facility so they can keep track and make sure you’re taking everything as prescribed.
Comfortable Clothing
You’ll want to pack comfortable clothing that is appropriate for the season. For example, you’ll want to pack sweaters, long pants, and jackets if it’s winter.
Be sure to pack clothes that are easy to put on and take off. This is especially important if you or your loved one will be receiving physical therapy or other treatments. This is because you’ll likely be changing in and out of clothes often.
Snacks and Treats
You or your loved one might get hungry between meals, so it’s a good idea to pack some snacks and treats. Be sure to pack items that are easy to eat and won’t make a mess.
Some good examples include granola bars, fruit bars, crackers, nuts, dried fruit, and hard candy. You can also ask the staff at the skilled nursing facility what kinds of snacks and treats they allow.
Entertainment
It’s also important to pack items for entertainment. This can help make your stay more enjoyable and help pass the time. Keep in mind that skilled nursing facilities do offer fun activities your loved one can enjoy.
Some good examples include books, magazines, puzzles, games, playing cards, and a laptop or tablet. Just be sure to check with the skilled nursing facility first to see their electronics policies.
Personal Items
Lastly, you’ll want to pack some personal items to make your skilled nursing stay more comfortable. This might include a favorite blanket or pillow, a book or magazine to read, a puzzle or game to play, and anything else that will help pass the time. These personal items will help you or your loved one feel more at home during your stay.
Packing for a skilled nursing stay doesn’t have to be difficult. Just use this essential checklist and you’ll be sure to pack everything you need!
Is Moving to a Skilled Nursing Facility Difficult?
The decision to move to a skilled nursing facility can be difficult. This is because it’s a significant change, and adjusting to a new environment can be hard. Below are some tips to make the move easier for you or your loved one:
Make a List of What You Need To Pack
Making a list of what you need to pack can help you stay organized and make sure you don’t forget anything important. Be sure to include items like toiletries, medications, comfortable clothing, snacks and treats, entertainment, and personal items.
Pack Your Favorite Things
Packing your favorite things can help you feel more at home in your new environment. This might include a favorite blanket or pillow, a book or magazine to read, a puzzle or game to play, and anything else that will help pass the time.
Visiting the Facility Before Your Stay
If possible, try to visit the skilled nursing facility before your stay. This way, you or your loved one can see what it’s like and get a feel for the environment. It can also be helpful to meet some of the staff and other residents.
Asking Questions
Before you or your loved one moves to a skilled nursing facility, be sure to ask any questions you have. This way, you can feel more prepared for what to expect. Some good questions to ask include:
- What are the visiting hours?
- Can I bring my own furniture?
- What is the food like?
- What activities are available?
- What is the discharge process?
For seniors, it’s very important to have a smooth transition to feel comfortable and safe in their new environment. This way, they won’t be stressed and can focus on getting better. Following these tips can make the transition to a skilled nursing facility easier for you or your loved one.
Conclusion
Sometimes, seniors need to stay in a skilled nursing facility for a short period to receive physical therapy or other treatments. If you or your loved one will be staying in a skilled nursing facility, use the checklist above to make sure you pack everything you need! Be sure to include items like toiletries, medications, comfortable clothing, snacks and treats, entertainment, and personal items.
Following these tips can make the transition to a skilled nursing facility much easier. And don’t forget to pack your favorite things to help you feel more at home! Lastly, if you have any questions about what to expect, be sure to ask before your loved one’s stay.