Moving Into a Care Home: A Family Checklist for a Smooth Transition
Making the decision to move into a care home is a significant moment — for the person moving, and for their loved ones. Whether it's planned months in advance or needed more urgently, the transition can be emotional and complex.
But it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
This moving into care home checklist is designed to help families feel confident, organised, and supported every step of the way. From paperwork to packing, communication to care planning — we’ve got you covered.
BEFORE THE MOVE
1. Finalise the Decision
Confirm the chosen care home, dates, and type of care (residential, respite, dementia, etc.)
Read through the care home agreement carefully
Discuss key points with the care manager (e.g. room allocation, meals, visiting policies)
2. Arrange Medical & Care Transfers
Notify your GP and arrange for medical records to be transferred
Confirm who will manage prescriptions and medication
Share care needs, mobility requirements, allergies, and routines with staff
3. Organise Financial and Legal Matters
Set up a direct debit or payment plan
Inform the local council (if care is funded or part-funded)
Ensure Power of Attorney documents or legal consents are in place if needed
PACKING CHECKLIST: WHAT TO BRING
Moving into a care home doesn’t mean leaving comfort behind — in fact, personal items help make it feel like home from day one.
Essentials:
Comfortable daywear and nightwear
Slippers and supportive footwear
Toiletries and personal grooming items
Hearing aids, glasses, mobility aids
Personal touches:
Family photos, small keepsakes
Favourite cushions or blankets
Ornaments or artwork for the room
A clock or radio
Helpful extras:
A labelled laundry bag
A notebook for jotting down questions or routines
A list of preferred meals or daily habits
Tip: Label clothes and belongings to avoid mix-ups in shared laundry facilities.
ON MOVING DAY
Arrive during agreed hours when staff can support the move
Bring someone familiar for emotional support
Take time to settle into the room — unpack, chat, make it feel personal
Meet some of the care team and fellow residents
It’s normal to feel a little overwhelmed — give it time, and don’t hesitate to ask for support.
FIRST WEEK: WHAT TO EXPECT
A personal care plan will be reviewed or created
Medical needs will be monitored and medication schedules adjusted
Residents are encouraged to join in with daily activities — but there’s no pressure
Families are kept in the loop and can arrange visits, calls, or updates
At Wardside House, we treat the first few days as a gentle introduction — focused on comfort, familiarity, and feeling safe.
Final Thought: Communication Is Key
One of the best ways to ease the transition is open communication — between family, resident, and the care home team.
Talk regularly, raise questions, and share preferences. Every resident is different, and the best care homes will want to learn how to support each individual.
Why Families Choose Wardside House
Located in peaceful rural Perthshire, Wardside House offers:
Expert residential and respite care in a warm, family-run setting
A supportive team who truly care about the person, not just their needs
Private, personalisable rooms and beautiful countryside views
A welcoming community where new residents feel right at home
Contact us today to arrange a visit.