Best Practices for a Smooth Transition into a Memory Care Neighborhood: What You Need to Know

Moving a loved one into a Memory Care neighborhood is a meaningful step, one that blends safety, comfort, and personalized support. But it can also be a confusing and difficult transition, fraught with anxiety and questions. Families often ask what to bring, what to avoid, and how to help their loved one feel at home. To make the transition as smooth as possible, we’ve gathered our best practices and helpful tips.

These guidelines are designed to protect residents, support their independence, and create a calming, familiar environment rooted in our Varietas® Memory Care philosophy.

Medications: Ensuring a Seamless Start

To prevent any interruption in care, please provide at least a one‑week supply of all medications on move‑in day.

Give these directly to the Memory Care Director so they can be secured in our designated medication area until Capital Pharmacy begins service.

Toiletries & Personal Hygiene: What’s Safe to Bring

We encourage families to read product labels carefully before packing toiletries. Items with warnings such as:

• “Harmful if swallowed.”
• “Keep away from children.”
• “Do not drink or ingest.”

must be stored securely and used only under staff supervision. These typically include razors, nail polish, and similar items.

Safe items that may remain in the apartment include:

• Body wash, lotions, and sprays
• Non‑medicated shampoos and conditioners
• Toothbrushes and most toothpaste
• Combs, brushes, and curlers
• Lip balm
• Personal hygiene products (briefs, pads, wipes, etc.)

Linens, Towels & Rugs

For comfort and convenience, we recommend:

• Two sets of bed linens
• Two sets of towels (bath, hand, and washcloths)

Please avoid bringing throw rugs or doormats, as they can create a fall risk.

Jewelry: Keeping It Simple and Familiar

We encourage residents to wear inexpensive costume jewelry if it’s part of their daily routine. Watches, brooches, and earrings are welcome.

Please avoid items with large pins or sharp components.

Chemicals & Cleaning Supplies

For safety, please do not bring:

• Cleaning chemicals
• Bleach
• Detergents
• Any household chemical products

Our team provides all necessary cleaning supplies.

Electrical Items: What’s Allowed and What Isn’t

To meet safety regulations, please refrain from bringing:

• Space heaters
• Electric heating pads or blankets
• Candles
• Plug‑in air fresheners
• Potpourri burners
• Extension cords
• Loose batteries

Allowed: Surge‑protected power strips and surge‑protected multi‑plugs.

Alcohol & Tobacco

Please do not leave any alcohol or tobacco products in the apartment. This includes cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco, pipes, lighters, and matches.

Shadow Boxes*: A Beautiful Tool for Comfort & Connection

Outside many apartments in some of our Memory Care neighborhoods is a Shadow Box, a personalized display that helps residents recognize their home and feel grounded in their identity. These displays are especially meaningful for individuals living with dementia, supporting memory recall and easing navigation.

Ideas for filling your loved one’s Shadow Box:

• Family photos
• Cards or souvenirs
• Small trinkets or keepsakes
• Seasonal decorations
• Favorite items from home

These small touches make a big difference in creating familiarity and belonging.

Optional Items That Make Life Easier

While not required, many families find these items helpful:

• Large‑print digital clock
• TV from home (familiar remotes and settings reduce frustration)
• Favorite drinks or snacks for the mini‑fridge
• Framed family photos
• Comfort items for moments of anxiety (blanket, stuffed animal, Bible, etc.)
• Comfortable sweatsuits
• Electric razor for men (used with supervision)
• Labeled clothing and laundry baskets with apartment number

These thoughtful additions help your loved one feel more at ease and more “themselves” in their new home.

Wrap Up

Transitioning into a Memory Care neighborhood is a significant moment for residents and for their families. Our goal is to make this move as easy, safe, and personalized as possible. By following these best practices and bringing familiar touches along, you help us create a warm, supportive environment where your loved one can thrive.

If you have questions or would like help preparing for move‑in day, our team is always here to support you.

*Not all communities have memory care boxes. 

Download a PDF of these recommendations here.