Moving can be challenging, especially for seniors. Downsizing, long-distance relocations to be near family, and transporting medically fragile loved ones can add to the stress. Here are five tips to help make your senior move as smooth and stress-free as possible.
1. Start Early
Begin downsizing as soon as you decide to move. Even if your new home is the same size, streamlining your belongings creates a calmer, safer living environment. Tackling a little bit at a time over several months reduces the physical and mental stress of sorting, selling, donating, and organizing a lifetime’s worth of items.
- Start small: Make a list of rooms, closets, and clutter areas, and set a weekly goal. Begin with a room that has low sentimental value, like a bathroom or guest room, to build momentum.
- Donate to charities: Letting go is easier when you know your items are going to a good cause. Consider donating to your favorite charities or gifting items to family and friends, sharing the memories behind them for a special connection.
- Visualize your new home: Keeping in mind the open and clutter-free space you loved about your new home can help you avoid overpacking.
2. Build Your Team
Don’t go it alone. Enlist family and friends to help with sorting, downsizing, cleaning, moving, and preparing your house for sale. If you prefer not to involve loved ones, consider hiring a senior relocation service. The cost of professional help is often worth the reduced stress and increased positivity about your move.
3. Make Healthcare Decisions Ahead of Time
If you’re moving to a new city, prepare healthcare logistics weeks in advance:
- Medical records and referrals: Ask your current doctors for copies of important medical records and prescription lists, and get referrals for new providers.
- Keep essentials handy: Pack medical records and prescription medicines separately and keep them with you on moving day.
- Insurance and appointments: Verify that new providers are in your insurance network and schedule appointments soon after you arrive.
- Pharmacy transfer: Request your pharmacy to transfer your prescriptions to a new location near your new home.
4. Plan Ahead for Moving Day
To reduce stress on moving day:
- Stay elsewhere: Consider staying at a hotel or with family a few nights before moving day. This helps you rest and ensures that essential items like medicines and toiletries are not accidentally packed by movers.
- Take it easy: If driving a long distance, allow plenty of time and rest stops. If flying, arrange for boarding assistance, a mobility escort, or special seating accommodations in advance.
- Travel companion: If moving alone, ask a friend or family member to accompany you. They can help with details, luggage, and provide companionship.
5. Home Sweet New Home
Ensure your new home feels like home:
- Comfort items: Pack a special box with favorite photos, blankets, mugs, and other comforting items to unpack first.
- Meet new neighbors: Whether moving into a new home, with family, or a senior community, take the time to meet the people around you. Join a new church, explore the library, participate in community activities, or tour the senior center.
- Set up tech: Before your moving help leaves, ensure someone tech-savvy sets up your internet, cable, and Wi-Fi.
By planning ahead and taking small steps, you can reduce the stress of your senior move and make the transition smoother and more enjoyable.
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