Moving into a care home, whether it is for a respite stay or long term, can be an emotional and unfamiliar experience. But with proper preparation and a checklist of essential items, the transition of moving into a care home can be smoother and more comfortable. Whether you or a loved one is making this move, it's important to consider what to bring to ensure a sense of familiarity and personal wellbeing. To help with this, we have created a comprehensive checklist on how to get ready for a move into a care home.

1. Clothing: Pack a selection of comfortable and appropriate clothing for various occasions and weather conditions. Include items like underwear, socks, nightwear, daywear, and footwear. Consider your preferences, and what will ensure maximum comfort and convenience, ensuring you have enough outfits for a week or two before laundry is done. It is also important to note that all items of clothing should be clearly and securely labelled.

2. Personal Care and Hygiene: Bring personal care items such as toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, soap, lotion, and any other products used on a daily basis. If you have to consider specific skin sensitivities or allergies, it's crucial to inform the care home staff and bring suitable alternatives.

3. Bedding: Most care homes provide bedding, but it's comforting to have your own sheets, blankets, and pillows to create a familiar sleeping environment, as well as help decorate your room to your taste. Also consider any special requirements such as mattress protectors or special pillows for medical conditions.

4. Furniture: Care homes typically provide basic furniture, including a bed, chair, and storage. However, if you have sentimental items, decorations, or furniture that holds personal value, it is possible to bring those along subject to space limitations and safety considerations. Discuss with the care home staff in advance to determine what can be accommodated.

5. Toiletries: In addition to personal care items, it's important to bring any additional toiletries that are part of your daily routine. This might include items like denture care supplies, hearing aid batteries, or other specialised products. It's helpful to label these items clearly to avoid confusion.

6. Electronics: If you enjoy using electronic devices, such as a radio, phone, tablet, or even your TV, be sure to pack them along with their chargers. These will be PAT tested upon your move for safety. Familiar gadgets can provide entertainment, connection, and cognitive stimulation. Remember to label the devices and chargers to prevent mix-ups.
   

What B&M Provide to Our Residents

At B&M Care, we understand the importance of creating a comfortable and nurturing environment for our residents when moving into a care home. We strive to provide a wide range of amenities and services to meet individual needs. Here are some examples of what we offer, all fully inclusive and free of charge:

• Fully furnished rooms: Our care homes are equipped with comfortable beds, chairs, and ample storage space for personal belongings. If you would prefer your own furniture however, we will ensure it is safety tested and accommodated for.
• Nutritious meals: We provide balanced and delicious meals tailored to specific dietary requirements and preferences. Our trained chefs ensure that residents receive high-quality, home-cooked food – served in our dining rooms, or in the comfort of your own room.
• Personal care assistance: Our dedicated staff offer personalised care and support, through detailed care plans personalised to every individual. This will include assistance with daily activities, medication management, and medical monitoring, all with the emphasis on person-centred care.
• Specialist dementia care: We specialise in person-centred dementia care, aiming to celebrate individuals for who they truly are, enforcing their independence and autonomy. Our purpose-built dementia environments and expertly trained staff will guarantee peace of mind.
• Engagement and wellbeing: We organise a variety of activities and social events to keep our residents engaged and entertained. From arts and crafts to exercise classes, there's something for everyone. We encourage our residents to maintain an active presence in the community, and we will aim to provide you with transport whenever you would like to go out. Our caring staff members are also trained to provide emotional support and companionship, making sure you are heard.
• Access to healthcare professionals: We work closely with healthcare providers to ensure residents receive the medical attention they require. This includes regular check-ups, medication reviews, and coordination of specialist appointments.
• Housekeeping and laundry services: We take care of the cleaning and laundry needs, allowing residents to focus on enjoying their time and maintaining their independence.

Moving into a care home is a significant transition, and having a checklist of essential items can help ease the process. Remember to communicate with the care home staff about any specific needs or concerns.

At B&M Care, we are committed to providing exceptional care and ensuring our residents feel at home. If you would like to visit one of your local care homes, or simply receive support and guidance, please feel free to contact us at any time.