Nursing Home Wear

Moving into a nursing home often presents at least a few challenges that, if addressed early on, can make the transition a little easier for everyone. One of those challenges is what to bring. Usually the personal space in the room is not large, so selecting things like favorite pictures that can be hung on the wall or placed on the dresser is very important. These pictures can serve as a source of comfort, memories and points for socialization in the new environment of the nursing home. Special blankets or throws for the bed are also helpful in making the room more familiar and give a little sense of the individual. A purse for the woman is also an important item, but make certain that nothing very valuable is in the purse. Personal care items like a favorite hair brush and hair care accessories are also important. Favorite books, writing material or journals are helpful if your loved one enjoys those types of activities.  Keeping some routine and familiarity with the past is usually very meaningful for those moving into a new environment.
The next thing to consider is the clothing your loved one will need. If you are not going to take clothing home to be washed, it is very important that you keep in mind the toll that the industrial strength laundering process takes on clothing. Any garment that is not “wash and wear” should not be brought into the nursing home.  (Note that all of Buck and Buck clothing is wash and wear.) You should also check clothing items to make certain that they are not torn or worn to the point that high wash and dry temperatures will shred them. Another important consideration as you look through your loved one’s closet is whether or not independent dressing is possible or does your loved one need assisted dressing. If independent dressing is still possible, then many of the items in the closet may be an option for their new residence. If self dressing is not possible, you may want to look at our wide variety of adaptive clothing.  You are certain to find what you need for your gentleman or lady. 
All clothing, slippers and shoes will need to have your loved one’s name written in with a laundry marker or sewn in with a label. Even then, items of clothing get misplaced so checking the closets and dressers every time you visit is helpful.
The types and quantities of clothing your loved one will need is as follows:
A minimum of 7 days of underwear and socks for the gentleman or lady, and if incontinence is an issue, 14 days is better;
One or two pair of non skid, easy to wear shoes and slippers. If laces are a problem then hook and loop closures on shoes or slip on shoes that give support are best. Take a look at our footwear collection for men and women;
Pants and/or skirts that will coordinate with a variety of shirts/blouses/t-shirts. If pants are the preferred clothing item, at least 5 pair would be good;
Dresses that are non-restrictive and the right length if your loved one will be in a wheelchair. Dresses that are too short will not be modest when sitting in a gerichair or wheelchair. If a dress is the preferred clothing item, at least 5 should be in the closet;
Sweaters/vests/shawls that will go with many of the outfits. Usually 2 or 3 are enough;
Sweatsuits or loose fitting pants if therapy is to be done. Many times sweats become a favorite of both men and women so a couple of pair in the beginning may be just right, but later, more may be needed;
Sleepwear (4) and robes (2) that are comfortable;
Slips (3 or 4) for the woman;
A coat or jacket for going outside in the courtyard or on outings.
Following this guide will give your loved one a good start and hopefully provide a little peace of mind for you.