Moving into a Care Home: What to Expect on the Day
Moving into a care home is a significant transition. This guide helps families and residents prepare for moving day and the first few weeks.
Important
Moving into a care home is an emotional time for everyone involved. Good preparation and knowing what to expect can make the transition smoother.
- Visit the care home with your loved one if possible
- Meet the key worker who will be their main contact
- Discuss any specific routines or preferences
- Label all clothing and belongings clearly
- Gather important documents (NHS number, medication list, GP details)
- Choose meaningful personal items to bring
- Comfortable, labelled clothing (avoid complicated fastenings)
- Personal toiletries and favourite products
- Photos of family and friends
- Familiar items from home (small furniture, ornaments)
- Favourite books, music, or hobby items
- Hearing aids, glasses, mobility aids with name labels
Arrive at a calm time (usually mid-morning). Staff will give a tour and introduce key people. Stay for a meal if possible, but don't overstay - your loved one needs time to settle.
- Feeling unsettled or tearful initially
- Taking time to learn routines
- Missing home and family
- Gradual adjustment over 2-4 weeks
- Some residents take longer - that's okay
Regular visits help, but don't feel guilty about going home. Phone calls, video calls, and messages also maintain connection. Let staff know about important dates and events.
Age UK: 0800 678 1602 for emotional support during transition. The Relatives & Residents Association: 020 7359 8136. Care Directory: 0808 501 0191
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I bring when moving into a care home?
Bring labelled clothing, personal toiletries, photos, familiar items from home (favourite chair, bedding), books and hobby items, and all necessary aids like glasses and hearing aids - all clearly labelled.
How long does it take to settle into a care home?
Most people start settling within 2-4 weeks, though it varies. Some adjustment difficulties in the first weeks are completely normal. Staff are experienced in supporting new residents.
Should family visit frequently at first?
Regular visits help, but balance this with giving your loved one time to settle and form relationships with staff and other residents. Short, frequent visits often work better than long ones initially.
What if my relative wants to come home?
This is common initially and doesn't necessarily mean the care home is wrong. Talk to staff about how they're settling. If concerns persist after the adjustment period, discuss with the home and consider options.
Need More Help?
Support Organisations
- Age UK:0800 678 1602
- Carers UK:0808 808 7777
- Alzheimer's Society:0333 150 3456
- Parkinson's UK:0808 800 0303
Care Directory Support
Sources & References
- Age UK
- Relatives & Residents Association