Preparing for Hospital or Skilled Nursing Stay

A hospital stay can be overwhelming, especially when caring for a loved one.
This checklist helps make sure they have everything they need for comfort, communication, and proper care during their stay.

ID & Insurance Cards – driver’s license, health insurance, Medicare/Medicaid cards
Medication List & Medical History – a list of current mediations (including over-the-counter medications and dosages), allergies, recent tests, medical conditions, primary doctor info
Emergency Contacts – list of family, friends, doctor’s phone numbers
Advanced Directives & Legal Documents – healthcare proxy, power of attorney, DNR order or living will (if applicable)

Phone & Charger – preferably a long charging cable (hospital outlets may be far)
Heating Aids & Batteries – if applicable, plus an extra set of batteries
Glasses & Case – if reading glasses needed, bring those too
Mobility Aids – walker, cane, or wheelchair if needed for moving around
Comfortable Clothing – loose-fitting clothes, easy-on shoes, or socks with grips to prevent falls
Extra Adult Diapers or Incontinence Products – if used at home, bring enough for the stay
Toiletries – toothbrush, toothpaste, lip balm, hand lotion, deodorant, comb/brush
Soft blanket or pillow

Notebook & Pen – help track doctor updates or medication changes
List of Personal Preferences – meal preferences, favorite TV shoes, or routines to share with staff
Family Photo or Familiar Item – something comforting from home to ease anxiety
Patient Advocate or Family Rotation – friend or family member to help communicate with staff, take notes, understand medication changes, etc.

Favorite Snacks & Water Bottle – if allowed, bring easy-to-eat, familiar snacks to help with nutrition
Moisturizing Lotion & Lip Balm – hospital air can be drying, especially for aging skin
Compression Socks – helps with circulation during prolonged bed rest
Entertainment – crossword puzzles, large-print books, audiobooks, or music player for engagement

Simple Labeling – if they have trouble recognizing things, label personal items (e.g. “John’s Glasses”
Soft Nightlight – if they get confused at night, a small, dim light can help them feel safer
Fidget Items – sensory or fidget objects (e.g. a small textured blanket, stress ball, or fidget toy) can help with restlessness
Music or Audiobooks – playing familiar songs through a small speaker or smartphone can be soothing

“Dementia-Friendly” Sign – place a note on their bed or tell staff they have dementia so they understand their needs
Patient Advocate or Family Rotation – if possible, have a familiar person with them as much as possible to reduce confusion and ensure clear communication with staff
Avoid Medical Jargon – encourage staff to use simple language and ask yes/no questions rather than open-ended ones

Familiar Scents – a small bottle of their usual lotion or lavender scent can provide comfort
Whiteboard for Notes – write down who’s visiting, what’s happening, and daily updates to help orient them