Moving can be a stressful process for homeowners of any age. For senior citizens though, it can be even more difficult for several reasons. A few of them being that the process can take longer, they need to be more aware of their health while moving, and they might need to downsize more than the normal homeowner. Whether you are a senior yourself, or you are helping a senior family member with the moving process, here are some downsizing and moving tips for seniors.
Research New Homes
When choosing your next location for your new home, there are a few things you should consider. You will want to make sure that it is in a convenient location, close to places you visit often or family members’ households. Other things to consider are the number of stairs in the new home and if the bathroom can be easily modified to meet your needs.
Should you Downsize?
As you’re looking for your next new home, you may be thinking that it’s time to downsize. Many seniors decide to downsize their home because the house upkeep becomes too overwhelming, there are rooms being unused and taking up heat and electricity, and they simply don’t need as much space or as many belongings anymore. If you are considering downsizing, it is important to start the process earlier than you think you will need to. It will take time to go through your possessions and decide on what you will keep, donate, sell, or throw away.
Pack One Room at a Time
As mentioned, you should start the packing and moving process earlier than you think you will need. Plan for a longer moving process to allow yourself time to research, organize, pack, and coordinate the move. As you pack, focus on one room at a time. Make sure to organize belongings by room and label them to help the unpacking process go smoother in your new home. You can write on boxes, get color stickers, or a label maker to help differentiate boxes by each room.
Shop Around for Movers
Before deciding on a company to help you with your move, it’s important to get multiple quotes and compare. Many moving companies will offer senior discounts, so make sure to ask when receiving quotes. They also might offer other special discounts for being a part of local clubs or organizations such as AAA or AARP.
Ask for Help and Know your Limits
You may think that you can handle the moving process all on your own. However, moving can be both physically and mentally draining. Ask for help from family or friends or hire movers to help you with the process. Make sure to use proper lifting techniques and to never lift more than what you are capable of while moving your belongings. Don’t forget to take small breaks in between the moving process as well.
Pack a Go-To Bag
During the moving process, there might be items that you need to access faster than the items that are packed. Packing a go-to bag that remains with you is an excellent idea to make sure you have everything you may need. These can be items like a change of clothes, toiletries, a phone charger, snacks, medications, and any other things you may need.
Advice for Friends and Family of Seniors
Moving can be an overwhelming time for seniors. They may want to do things themselves and be too ashamed or scared to ask for help. It’s important to offer them help, but also give them space when they need it. If they do accept your help, try to help keep everyone on task and on a timeline to streamline the moving process. You should also offer to help with the more physical aspects of moving and encourage them to meet new people once they are settled in their new home.