What’s in Your Box?
Donna Nichols • April 8, 2025
What does that mean? It means what’s important to you. What do you want to take with you should you leave your home and move to an assisted living community? Assisted living apartments typically range from 500 to 900 square feet, so if you come from a home that is 2,000 square feet, you will be losing a significant amount of square footage.
What’s important to me may not be important to you; it differs for everyone. You’ll want to balance practical needs with personal comforts when thinking about what to bring. Here's a breakdown of what might be in your box and what to consider taking with you:
When preparing to move into an assisted living community, the "box" is a metaphor for the essentials or comforts you’re packing to make the space your own. Here’s what could go in that box:
- Personal Essentials:
- Clothing: Comfortable, easy-to-wear clothes, including shoes that are safe for walking (like non-slip footwear).
- Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, lotion, and other personal hygiene items.
- Medications: A well-organized container for daily meds (check with staff for any medication regulations).
- Comforting Personal Items:
- Photographs: Family pictures, old albums, or framed photos of pets can help create a homier feel.
- Favorite Books or Magazines: If you love to read, packing a few favorite books or magazines can be comforting.
- Blankets or Throw Pillows: Soft, cozy items that remind you of home.
- Technology:
- Cell phone or tablet: Stay in touch with family and friends. If needed, a simple phone with larger buttons might be helpful.
- Charger and headphones: Keep your devices powered up and ready for entertainment or communication.
- Entertainment & Hobbies:
- Crafts, puzzles, or knitting: Hobbies like knitting, crocheting, or painting can offer a good mental boost.
- Music: A playlist or a device with your favorite tunes. Maybe even a small portable speaker.
- Documents:
- Important papers: Health documents, insurance information, and personal identification should always be within easy reach.
- Safety Items:
- Walkers or canes: If you use mobility aids, don't forget these items.
- Glasses and Hearing Aids: Any vision or hearing accessories you rely on to help with daily life.
What would you take with you?
When moving into an assisted living community, you may not have the space for everything you own, so bringing only the most meaningful and necessary items is important. Here's a breakdown of what to take with you:
- Personal Care and Health Items:
- Your medications, medical devices (like CPAP machines), and other health-related essentials should come.
- Items like hearing aids, glasses, and dentures are crucial to have on hand.
- Don’t forget a first aid kit with basic items like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and a thermometer.
- Bedding and Furniture:
- Sheets, blankets, and pillows that are soft and familiar.
- If allowed, take small, comfortable furniture like a favorite chair or nightstand.
- Decorative Touches:
- Personal touches such as a family photo frame, a small vase, or your favorite artwork can make a new space feel welcoming.
- Consider a small rug to help make the room feel warmer and more comfortable.
- Clothing:
- Comfortable clothing that suits the climate where you’ll be living.
- Slippers and non-slip shoes are very important for safety and comfort.
- Seasonal clothing: Depending on the time of year, pack sweaters, jackets, hats, or lighter clothes.
- Technology:
- Smartphone or tablet for keeping in touch with family and friends.
- A Kindle or e-reader could be a great option if you like to read but want to save space.
- Tangible Keepsakes:
- A small heirloom, a favorite book, or a memory box filled with meaningful trinkets can bring emotional comfort in a new place.
- Food & Kitchen Tools (if allowed):
- Some assisted living communities may allow you to have a few personal items for snacks, like a mini fridge or microwave in your room.
- Favorite snacks or special foods you enjoy might be comforting to have on hand.
Considerations for Your New Space
Each assisted living community has its own rules and space limitations, so it’s a good idea to ask what you can bring and what is already provided. Many communities offer furniture, housekeeping, and even activities, so your primary focus may be personalizing your space with items that truly bring you joy and comfort.
Ultimately, the most important things to take will help you feel settled, safe, and supported in this new chapter of your life.
What’s in your box for this kind of move? Are there any personal items you would want to make sure are packed?
Florida's paradise of sun-kissed beaches, vibrant culture, and tropical beauty—is also home to one of the most intense annual weather phenomena: hurricane season. From June 1 to November 30, Floridians remain on high alert as powerful storms brew in the Atlantic, each potentially bringing torrential rain, fierce winds, and coastal surges. Understanding hurricane season is crucial for residents and visitors, as it ensures safety and preparedness in the face of nature’s fury. The Impact on Florida Florida has experienced some of the most destructive hurricanes in history, including Andrew (1992), Irma (2017), Ian (2022), Debby, Helene, and Milton (2024). These storms left behind immense devastation, flooding homes, severing power lines, and reshaping entire communities. The economic toll of hurricanes is staggering, affecting local businesses, tourism, and infrastructure. Coastal regions, particularly the Florida Keys and areas along the Gulf Coast, often face the most significant risk. However, inland areas are not immune—wind damage and flooding can wreak havoc miles from the shoreline. Preparing for Hurricane Season Being prepared is the best defense against hurricanes. Here’s how Floridians can safeguard themselves: Stay Informed : Monitor local weather reports and emergency alerts. The National Hurricane Center provides real-time tracking and updates. Create an Emergency Kit : Stock up on essentials, including water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, and extra batteries. Don’t forget important documents and pet supplies! Have a Plan : Know evacuation routes and shelter locations. Discuss emergency plans with family members and establish a safe meeting point. Secure Your Home : Reinforce windows, clear debris from your yard, and consider investing in storm shutters if possible. Hurricane season is a reality in Florida, but with preparation and awareness, residents can confidently weather the storm. Whether you’re a lifelong Floridian or a visitor experiencing the Sunshine State, staying informed and ready is key. Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember—storms may come, but resilience keeps Florida strong.
Hurricane season in Florida, running from June to November, is a time for preparation, not panic. While these storms bring powerful winds, heavy rain, and potential flooding, a well-thought-out plan can make all the difference—especially for seniors. Taking proactive steps ensures safety, comfort, and peace of mind when the storm arrives. Let’s explore how you can best prepare, stay safe, and recover after the storm. For seniors, hurricanes present unique challenges. Mobility concerns may make evacuation difficult, medical needs require careful planning, and power outages can disrupt essential healthcare devices. Knowing the potential risks helps guide preparation efforts. Flooding: Heavy rain and storm surges can cause rapid water level rises, making roads impassable and homes vulnerable. Strong Winds: Hurricanes can bring winds exceeding 100 mph, toppling trees, damaging homes, and cutting off power. Extended Recovery Time: After a storm, essential services may be limited, making access to food, medications, and transportation difficult. Essential Preparations Emergency Kit: Assemble an emergency kit with the following essentials: medications, medical records, flashlights, extra batteries, non-perishable food, and water (enough for one gallon per person per day) – sufficient for three to five days. Evacuation Plan: Find nearby senior-friendly hurricane shelters that provide accessibility and medical support. Arrange Transportation: If you don’t drive, organize transportation with family, friends, or local emergency services. Communication Strategy: Stay connected with family, neighbors, and emergency contacts. Sign up for emergency alerts through local weather services. Staying Safe During the Storm When the storm arrives, stay indoors and follow safety guidelines. Shelter Wisely: If you are staying home, choose an interior room away from windows. Monitor Updates: Use a battery-powered radio or phone to stay informed on conditions. Stay Calm: Practice relaxation techniques to manage stress and anxiety. What to do After the Storm Once the storm passes, careful steps ensure safety. • Assess Damage before venturing outside—watch for fallen power lines or debris. • Seek Assistance for cleanup, repairs, or financial aid through FEMA or community organizations. • Emotional Resilience: Recovering from a hurricane takes time. Connect with neighbors, friends, and local support groups to help ease the process. Conclusion Preparation is the best way to weather the storm—both physically and emotionally. By taking proactive steps, seniors can remain safe, informed, and in control during hurricane season. If you or a loved one needs additional support, contact your local emergency management office or organizations like the Red Cross. Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember that every storm eventually passes.
Aging isn’t about slowing down—it’s about living more deliberately. As people age, their priorities shift from chasing time to cherishing it. So, what do seniors truly want? The answer is as diverse as the individuals themselves, but some clear themes emerge when we listen closely. 1. Connection and Community One of the most important things seniors crave is connection. Meaningful relationships bring joy and purpose, whether with family, old friends, or new acquaintances. Many seek social opportunities through clubs, senior centers, classes, or online communities. Loneliness can be a silent struggle, so companionship is a deeply valued part of life. 2. Respect and Independence Seniors want to be seen for who they are: individuals with a lifetime of experience, knowledge, and stories. Being treated with dignity and not being "talked down to" matters. So does having the freedom to make choices about their own lives. Maintaining a sense of autonomy is key when deciding how to spend their day, what to eat, or where to live. 3. Health and Wellness Staying healthy is more than just avoiding illness—it’s about having the energy to enjoy life. Seniors are increasingly proactive about fitness, mental health, and nutrition. Access to quality healthcare, fitness programs tailored to their needs, and mental stimulation are all top priorities. 4. Purpose and Meaning Retirement doesn’t mean retiring from life. Many seniors want to stay active through volunteering, mentoring, or even starting new ventures. Purpose drives fulfillment, whether taking care of grandchildren, learning a new skill, or contributing to a cause they care about. 5. Security and Peace of Mind Financial stability, safe housing, and access to reliable services give seniors peace of mind. Many are concerned about outliving their savings, dealing with unexpected health issues, or navigating complex systems. Clear information, supportive resources, and a sense of safety help ease these worries. 6. Fun and Adventure Yes—seniors still want fun! Travel, hobbies, music, food, and laughter never go out of style. Joy is ageless, whether it's a road trip, gardening, or dancing to old tunes. Seniors want to experience life, not just watch it pass by. Start by Listening Ultimately, the best way to understand what seniors want is simple: ask them. Every person, no matter their age, has unique preferences, needs, and dreams. When we listen with empathy and engage with respect, we create a world where aging is celebrated, not feared. Let’s build that world together. Call us to help each other enrich the lives of our seniors. 386-847-2322.