Moving Into a Nursing Home: Documents, Packing and the Admission Agreement
Admission day goes more smoothly with the right paperwork in hand, a few familiar belongings, and a careful read of the admission agreement.
Whether the move follows a hospital stay or has been planned for months, a little preparation reduces stress for everyone and helps staff get to know your loved one quickly.
Documents to gather
- Photo ID, Social Security card, and Medicare, Medicaid and any supplemental or Medicare Advantage insurance cards.
- A current medication list, including doses, plus allergies and recent hospital discharge papers.
- Names and contact details of doctors, specialists and the pharmacy.
- Copies of a durable power of attorney, health care proxy or advance directive, and any POLST or do-not-resuscitate order.
- Long-term care insurance policy details, if any.
What to pack
- About a week of comfortable, washable clothing that is easy to put on, plus non-slip shoes or slippers.
- Glasses, hearing aids and dentures, with their cases. Label everything.
- Familiar things: family photos, a favorite blanket or pillow, a small radio or tablet with chargers.
- A simple “about me” page with your loved one’s routines, preferences, favorite foods and what comforts them. Staff find this very helpful.
Ask the home about labeling clothing, laundry, and any limits on furniture or electrical items.
What to leave at home
Leave jewelry, large amounts of cash and irreplaceable keepsakes at home, or keep a written inventory of valuables. Residents can usually ask the home to hold a small amount of personal funds in a resident trust account.
Reading the admission agreement
Take the time to read the admission agreement before signing, and ask questions about anything unclear. Federal rules for nursing homes that accept Medicare or Medicaid include some important protections:
- No required third-party guarantee. A home may not require a family member or friend to personally guarantee payment as a condition of admission. A legal representative who manages the resident’s money can be asked to use the resident’s funds to pay, which is different from paying out of their own pocket.
- Arbitration is optional. A home may not require you to sign a binding arbitration agreement as a condition of admission, and you have a right to cancel one within 30 days of signing.
- Ask what the rate includes. Get the daily rate, what it covers and what is billed separately in writing.
The first few weeks
Expect an adjustment period. Ask when the first care plan meeting will be held. It is your chance, with your loved one, to share goals and preferences with the care team. Visit often at first if you can, and keep a short list of questions or concerns to raise with the nurse or social worker.