New Home Setup
Room by Room
What to unpack first, what safety items to install, and how to make a new space feel like home from the very first night.
What to Set Up First — In Order of Priority
Unpacking order matters. Start with the bedroom and bathroom so your loved one can rest and freshen up. Everything else follows.
Bedroom — First Priority
- 1Assemble and make the bed with fresh linens and favorite blankets
- 2Unpack and hang clothes in the closet — familiar items first
- 3Place family photos, clock, lamp, and phone charger on nightstand
- 4Set up TV, radio, or entertainment system if used
- 5Place a flashlight in the nightstand drawer
- 6Ensure a clear, unobstructed path from bed to bathroom
- 7Set up CPAP machine or other medical equipment if applicable
Bathroom — Safety First
- 1Install grab bars by toilet and in shower/tub (or use suction grab bars if renting)
- 2Place non-slip bath mat inside tub/shower and non-slip rug outside
- 3Set up shower chair or bath bench if needed
- 4Unpack toiletries — toothbrush, soap, shampoo, medications
- 5Install raised toilet seat if needed
- 6Place nightlight in bathroom
- 7Ensure towels, washcloths, and robe are accessible
Kitchen — Daily Essentials
- 1Unpack daily-use items: coffee maker, toaster, microwave, favorite mug
- 2Stock refrigerator with basics — milk, eggs, bread, fruit, easy meals
- 3Set up pantry with frequently used non-perishables
- 4Place dishes, glasses, and silverware in easy-to-reach cabinets
- 5Set up a medication station — pill organizer, water glass, list of meds
- 6Post emergency contacts and doctor numbers on refrigerator
- 7Test smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector
Living Room — Making It Feel Like Home
- 1Arrange furniture in a familiar layout similar to old home
- 2Display favorite family photos, art, and meaningful keepsakes
- 3Set up TV remote with large-button or simplified remote if needed
- 4Ensure good lighting — floor lamps near chairs, no dark corners
- 5Clear all pathways — at least 36 inches wide for walker access
- 6Secure or remove loose rugs that could cause tripping
- 7Place a phone and emergency call device within reach of favorite chair
Safety Checklist — Do Before the First Night
The first night
matters most.
A senior's first night in a new home sets the emotional tone for the entire transition. When the bed is made, photos are up, and the bathroom is safe — the new space starts feeling like home instead of a strange place.
At A Gift of Time, our move-in service includes complete home setup — we unpack, make the beds, hang the art, stock the kitchen, and make sure everything is safe and comfortable before you arrive. The first thing you see when you walk in should be home.
Print This Checklist
Check off each task as you set up the new home
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