250. 12 Items You Should NOT Take To Assisted Living

Have you ever looked around your home and realized just how much you’ve accumulated over the years? When it’s time to move into assisted living, it’s not about taking everything — it’s about being thoughtful and intentional with what you bring.

This next chapter is all about comfort, safety, and simplicity. You’re creating a space that’s manageable, meaningful, and truly feels like home — not just a smaller version of your current house. It’s an opportunity to surround yourself with the items you love and use the most, while letting go of things that no longer serve you.

Not long ago, someone shared with me a story about their family member's jewelry being stolen in assisted living. This got me thinking about the importance of protecting our valuables. My own mother and her husband are on this journey towards assisted living, and I’ve been reflecting on what truly needs to be left behind. Let’s take a look at the key things you might want to reconsider bringing along to ensure a safe and comfortable transition.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Clarifications
01:53 Welcome to Aging and Style
02:23 Things Not to Bring to Assisted Living
03:28 Detailed List of Items to Avoid
08:58 Final Thoughts and Personal Advice
11:31 Conclusion and Farewell

What You Shouldn't Bring To Assisted Living

First on the list of what to leave behind: big, bulky furniture.

On the surface, this might seem arbitrary, but when downsizing from a house to a cozier living space, every square inch counts. Most people moving into assisted living have some level of mobility issues, which could be aggravated by cramped spaces. Walking aids or wheelchairs require space to maneuver. I recommend looking at the floor plan of the new place and bringing in only those pieces that will fit comfortably within that layout.

Then, there are fire hazards. Items such as hot plates or space heaters fall into this category and should be left behind. These items are generally prohibited within assisted living communities for your safety and the safety of others. Rest assured, the community will ensure your new home is safe and cozy without these potential risks.

Valuables are another category worth a second thought. I'm not insinuating that your things will be stolen, but both personal experience and hearsay remind us that things do disappear. Cases of jewelry theft in assisted living, whether by third parties like caregivers or rare unscrupulous visitors, are not unheard of. My advice? Store those heirlooms, treasures, and large sums of cash in a safety deposit box, or entrust them with a family member.

When it comes to clothes, remember that you’re not packing for a fashion runway. If you haven't worn it since 1985, chances are you won't miss it. Assisted living is an opportunity to downsize and focus on comfort and essentials. Try to pare down your wardrobe, keeping only those items you frequently wear. Remember, closet space is often limited.

Harsh cleaning chemicals are another item on the do-not-pack list. Assisted living comes with the perk of housekeeping services. They provide cleaning products, and they tackle chores like washing sheets and general cleaning, so you don’t have to.

As for gym equipment, while staying fit is crucial, there’s no need to lug your treadmill or indoor bicycle along. Most communities offer gym facilities with exercise rooms and equipment. However, if small items like a yoga mat or set of light weights are part of your daily routine, feel free to bring them along.

Weapons, surprisingly, are sometimes not considered, but this too is a no-go. Regardless of historical or personal significance, weapons should never accompany you to assisted living. It’s safer and wiser to pass them on to a trusted relative or keep them in secure storage.

Lastly, pets—oh yes, our furry friends! While most places allow pets, it's essential to confirm the policies. Typically, there are restrictions on size and breed, and a plan is needed for their care. Ensure your new facility's pet policies align with your expectations and capabilities.

Embracing this new chapter requires careful thought and planning about what to bring and what to store away or pass on. As I've learned with my mom's preparations for her move, simplifying can make your new living environment both safe and comfortable. With the right planning, you can transform a downsized space into a cozy, personalized home that still echoes with pieces of your past. If you found these tips helpful, share this post with friends and family who might be embarking on a similar journey, and subscribe to my podcast for more insights every Friday. Until next time, happy downsizing!