Moving into a Care Home Checklist
You might be feeling a mix of excitement and uncertainty, which is why we want to make it as easy as possible with this moving into a care home checklist.
Moving at any stage of life can be stressful, but generally, going into a care home is the final one people make, offering a sense of relief.
On this page, you’ll find information on what to expect when transitioning to a care home, from the first visit to settling into a care home, what to bring, personalising your space, and how we support both residents and families throughout the first weeks and beyond.
Whether you’re moving into The Firs in Breaston, another residential care home in Derby, or anywhere else for that matter, we hope you find this checklist useful in preparing for a care home move.
Need some additional support?
Going into a Care Home? We’re Here for You
We’ve put together this step-by-step guide for how to prepare for moving into a care home, based on our 30+ years of welcoming residents at The Firs.
While this page contains information specific to our family-run home, this checklist aims to help anyone moving into a care home.
Need some advice?
Before You Arrive: Preparing for a Care Home Move
At The Firs, before a new resident moves in, a member of our team will meet with you and your family to talk about your preferences, routines, health needs, and interests. This gets us off to a great start as we learn who you are, what matters to you, and how we can personalise your care, which is one of our key offerings.
We’ll also explain:
- How our home runs day-to-day
- Team member roles and what they mean for you
- Activities and social opportunities
- Visiting arrangements for family and friends
“"My mum has been at the Firs Residential Home for a month now. It took her a little while to settle in but now she is really happy and is looking really well. The staff are all very friendly and very caring and are happy for us to visit whenever we want. There is a lovely homely atmosphere here and nothing is too much trouble. Everything is sorted out for my mum's needs so we don't have to worry. I would highly recommend it."
-Anne N (daughter of resident)
Moving Day: What Happens on the Day?
Your move-in day is all about making you comfortable and confident in your new surroundings. Here’s how it typically works at The Firs:
- Friendly Arrival
A team member will be waiting to greet you, help you with luggage, and show you around while assisting with any mobility issues. - Settling Into Your Room
We encourage residents to personalise their rooms as we find it helps them settle quicker. We’ll help you unpack and arrange your personal belongings should you wish. - Meet the Team
You’ll be introduced to your key carer and other staff members. While you can ask questions at any point, this is a great opportunity. - Lunch and a Relaxed Start
Enjoy a freshly prepared nutritious meal and meet other residents to settle into the daily rhythm of life at The Firs.
The First Few Days: Finding Your Footing
Everyone settles at their own pace, and we provide support every step of the way.
Day 1–2: Mostly rest, getting to know your room, and meeting staff.
Day 3–5: Begin meeting other residents and exploring common areas.
Week 1–2: Join in activities if you wish to, try meals in the dining room, and establish routines.
Our care team checks in with you daily, making sure you’re comfortable, informed, and never alone with questions or concerns.
Want to speak to a member of the team?
What to Pack When Moving into a Care Home
Packing can feel overwhelming. Here’s a helpful guide:
Clothing and Footwear
- Comfortable everyday clothes
- Nightwear and slippers
- Jacket or coat
- Labelled items for easy identification
Personal Care Items
- Prescription medication (labelled)
- Any preferred toiletries
- Any special health equipment you use
Important Documents
- Identification (passport/ID card)
- Health and medication records
- Advance care information
Personalising Your New Space
At The Firs, we strongly believe that your room should feel familiar and comforting, not institutional.
You’re welcome to bring:
- Photos of family and pets
- Favourite blankets and cushions
- Books, artwork or ornaments
We can help you arrange them, including hanging photos and placing treasured items where you like them. Personal touches help create a sense of belonging and connection.
Emotional Support Moving into a Care Home
Moving home can be emotional: excitement, sadness, relief, and anxiety can hit all at once. We’re here to help.
Your comfort matters:
- One-to-one time with your key carer
- Gentle conversations about how you’re feeling
- Encouragement to join social events at your pace
- Quiet spaces if you need privacy or rest
Our staff are trained to recognise adjustment stress and respond with empathy, patience, and reassurance.
Family Involvement and Support
We know family plays a vital role, both before and after moving in.
We encourage frequent communication with loved ones:
- Open dialogue with family members
- Regular updates from your care team
- Family visits as often as you like (visiting hours are from 9 am – 10 pm)
Families are welcome to join care planning meetings, share personal insights about routines and preferences, and be actively involved in supporting the transition.
Want to learn more?
Practical Tips for Families
What helps people settle in?
- Visit together before move-in day so the environment feels familiar
- Bring treasured items to personalise the room
- Encourage involvement in community activities (at resident’s pace)
- Keep routines going (e.g., favourite music at mealtime)
- Regular phone calls or visits in the first weeks
Your presence supports emotional stability, and we’re here to help every step of the way.
Activities and Social Life
Life at The Firs is lively, warm, and community-focused.
Activities designed to engage and inspire include:
- Gentle seated exercises and movement classes
- Creative sessions like arts and crafts or music
- Group games, quizzes, and social gatherings
- Outings to local parks, cafes, or events
- On-site performances from professional entertainers
While many residents find that participating helps build friendships and adds joy to daily life, getting involved is optional.
Check out our blog for an idea of the activities our residents enjoy.
Mealtimes and Nutrition
Food at The Firs isn’t just healthy, it’s delicious, and sociable.
What to expect:
- Balanced meals prepared fresh daily
- Menus designed with dietary needs and choices in mind
- Assistance with eating if needed
- Families of residents can join meals by arrangement
Mealtimes are more than nourishment; they’re an opportunity to connect and enjoy company.
If you have specific dietary requirements, let us know so we can prepare.
After the First Week: Ongoing Care and Support
We never stop helping you feel at home with:
- Regular check-ins
- Adjustments to routines as needed
- Invitations to join community activities
- Continued support for families
Your comfort, happiness, and independence are our main priorities.
Got another question? We’d be more than happy to help.
The Firs Residential Home
9 Stevens Ln
Breaston
Derby
DE72 3BU
Tel: 01332 872535
Email: director@thefirsderby.co.uk
Frequently Asked Questions
Everyone’s different, but most residents feel comfortable within a few weeks. We support each stage gently.
Yes. We help you rearrange furniture and personalise your space should you require assistance.
We encourage regular visits in line with resident preferences and our visiting policy. People can visit between 9 am – 10 pm daily.