Relocating can be particularly stressful and physically challenging for seniors. Things like downsizing, preparing, packing, and moving can be particularly demanding. Consequently, seniors may need special assistance.
However, getting your senior loved one ready for a residential move can be straightforward with these eight tips.
1. Eliminate Non-Essential Stuff
Seniors often have lived in their homes for many years, accumulating many possessions. They need support in deciding what to declutter. People tend to become attached to items, so you can assist them by sitting down and helping them decide what to do with their things. If they have difficulty, consider storing them until they are ready to let go. They will also likely have a lot of paperwork that needs to be shredded.
2. Pack in Small Steps
The task of moving or downsizing can be overwhelming when looked at as a whole. Breaking the task down into smaller pieces can make it easier to manage. Often, seniors have lived in the same house for years, so it may take some time for them to adjust.
3. Plan the New Home’s Layout
Take measurements in the senior’s new home to see how much space will be in the closets and other storage areas. This new home will likely be much smaller than their previous home, and you must plan accordingly. Measuring will help you and your senior decide what will fit and what won’t during the downsizing and packing process if you have all this specific information about the new home.
4. Start With Large Items
Assist your senior in determining what to do with bulky items, such as sofas, tables, chairs, dressers, extra beds, and other large furniture pieces. There is a good chance they will not all fit in the new place, so ask them which ones are necessary and sell, donate, or store the others.
5. Pack Each Room
Boxing up belongings room-by-room makes packing less overwhelming and easier to organize. Label each moving box, so your movers know where to place it at the new residence. This way, it will be easier for your senior to locate items once they get settled in and unpacked. Hiring professional movers that offer packing is often a good idea.
6. Photograph Electronics
Managing wires, cables, plugs, and other details with electronics can be challenging. Take photos of each configuration for televisions, cable boxes, computers, printers, and other necessary reconnect items. This way, you, the mover, or another individual can quickly get things back up after the move.
7. Note Important Dates on a Calendar
Put reminders in your senior’s phone calendar if they use a smartphone. Alternatively, get a good, old-school paper calendar and highlight critical dates, such as moving day, utility turn-on/shut-off dates, mail forwarding dates, and other significant reminders.
8. Pack Essentials
Prepare an overnight bag with all the essential items they need right after moving in. This bag or box should include all medicines, charging cords, and change of clothes,
Simple Steps to Moving
If you or someone you know is moving, we can help—from flexible household moving services to storage solutions. Get a free quote from us today.