{"id":12202,"date":"2026-04-27T16:29:49","date_gmt":"2026-04-27T20:29:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/aliviodownsizing.com\/?p=12202"},"modified":"2026-04-27T16:29:49","modified_gmt":"2026-04-27T20:29:49","slug":"what-to-pack-for-long-term-care","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/aliviodownsizing.com\/fr\/what-to-pack-for-long-term-care\/","title":{"rendered":"What to Pack for Long-Term Care"},"content":{"rendered":"

Moving a loved one into a long-term care (LTC) home is never just a move, it\u2019s a major life transition. For many families across Toronto, the GTA, and Ottawa<\/strong>, the biggest question becomes: What do we actually bring?<\/em><\/p>\n

After supporting hundreds of seniors and families through downsizing and transitions, we\u2019ve seen firsthand that the right approach is simple, intentional, and organized<\/strong>. Overpacking creates stress and clutter; under-packing creates discomfort. The goal is balance.<\/p>\n

Here\u2019s a complete, practical checklist<\/strong> to help you prepare your loved one for long-term care in Ontario.<\/p>\n

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Start With the Essentials (Less Is More)<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n

Most LTC rooms are compact<\/strong>, and facilities provide many basic services like laundry and linens. Bring what\u2019s needed to feel comfortable.<\/p>\n

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Clothing Checklist (Label Everything)<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n

LTC homes in Ontario provide laundry services, so clothing should be easy to wash, durable, and comfortable<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

\u2714 7\u201310 pairs of underwear
\u2714 5\u20137 pairs of socks (non-slip preferred)
\u2714 5\u20137 comfortable tops
\u2714 3\u20135 pairs of pants (elastic waist recommended)
\u2714 2\u20133 sweaters or cardigans
\u2714 1\u20132 sets of sleepwear
\u2714 1 light jacket or coat
\u2714 Indoor shoes\/slippers (non-slip)
\u2714 Outdoor shoes
\u2714 Seasonal items (hat, gloves)<\/p>\n

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Label Everything (This Matters More Than You Think)<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n

In shared environments like LTC homes, items can easily get misplaced.<\/p>\n

We strongly recommend labeling all clothing and personal items<\/strong>. A reliable option is Mabel\u2019s Labels<\/strong><\/a>, which offers durable, easy-to-use labels designed for long-term care environments.<\/p>\n

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Personal Hygiene & Daily Care<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n

\u2714 Toothbrush & toothpaste
\u2714 Hairbrush or comb
\u2714 Shampoo & conditioner
\u2714 Body wash or soap
\u2714 Deodorant
\u2714 Razor (electric preferred)
\u2714 Moisturizer & lip balm
\u2714 Nail clippers
\u2714 Tissues
\u2714 Denture care (if applicable)<\/p>\n

Many LTC homes provide some basics, but having familiar products helps with comfort and routine.<\/p>\n

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Make It Feel Like Home (Without Overdoing It)<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n

This is where emotional comfort comes in.<\/p>\n

\u2714 Family photos (framed or album)
\u2714 A small blanket or throw
\u2714 A few meaningful keepsakes
\u2714 Clock (easy-to-read)
\u2714 Calendar
\u2714 Books or magazines
\u2714 Glasses & case
\u2714 Hearing aids & batteries<\/p>\n

Keep it simple and intentional. <\/strong>Too many items can quickly overwhelm the space.<\/p>\n

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Medical & Mobility Essentials<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n

\u2714 Medication list (with dosages)
\u2714 Walker, cane, or wheelchair (labeled)
\u2714 Orthopedic supports (if needed)
\u2714 Incontinence supplies (if not provided)<\/p>\n

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Important Documents (Do Not Leave in Room)<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n

Provide these directly to the facility administration:<\/p>\n

\u2714 Health card (OHIP)
\u2714 Power of Attorney documents
\u2714 Emergency contact list
\u2714 Advance care directives<\/p>\n

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Miscellaneous Items<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n

\u2714 Laundry bag (labeled)
\u2714 Small garbage bin
\u2714 Reusable water bottle
\u2714 Snacks (if permitted)<\/p>\n

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What NOT to Bring<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n