Once you've decided to move into a nursing home, the amount of work increases dramatically, including admission procedures, moving preparations, and checking necessary documents. Among these tasks, one that many families struggle with is, "What kind of clothes should I prepare?"

Three things you should confirm with the facility first.

  • Who will do the laundry (at the facility, outsourced, or taken home by family)? Will a dryer be used?
  • Is it necessary to label clothing with names? (Tag labeling, name stickers, name personalization service)
  • To what extent can the individual dress themselves (e.g., wheelchair use, arm movement, whether or not they wear adult diapers)?

Guideline for the number of clothing items

  • Everyday clothes (tops) 5-7 pieces: Front-opening tops are popular because they make it easier to assist with changing clothes.
  • Everyday bottoms (5-7 pairs): Loose-fitting bottoms with an elastic waistband are recommended.
  • 3-5 pairs of pajamas: Some facilities may require front-opening pajamas.
  • 5-7 undershirts: Use three-quarter sleeves or long sleeves depending on the season.
  • 5-7 pairs of socks: They are easily lost, and some facilities require socks with non-slip soles.
  • One or two light jackets/cardigans: These are useful for regulating body temperature as the facility is air-conditioned.

Common mistakes

These three things require particular attention: choosing your usual size (which can be tight in adult diapers or when sitting for long periods), choosing clothes only while standing when using a wheelchair (which can result in your back being exposed or the hems being too long when sitting), and only bringing your favorite clothes (when considering daily changing, laundry, and assistance, clothes that are easy to change into are often more useful than clothes that are wearable).

You don't need to buy everything new. First, check the clothes you currently own, and simply add what you're missing.

Consult with a care concierge.