Moving seniors to a new home presents a different set of challenges from moving when we’re younger. Even though seniors don’t have as many needs, there are important considerations you have to make to ensure they are comfortable and happy in their new home. Here are some tips for a smooth senior move for everyone.
1. Plan ahead
We offer this advice for any move, and it’s no less important when moving seniors to a new home. However, in the case of older people, you may be making many important decisions for them that we would normally make ourselves when we’re younger.
Choosing the right home may include any or all of these factors:
- Type of housing
- Proximity to family
- Cost of living
- Access to healthcare and medical facilities
- Outlook and scenery
- Access to transport
- Access to shops, dining and recreational facilities
- Climate and weather
- Access to public amenities
2. Talk to family about making the move
Even if you are the decision maker, it’s important to keep other family members informed about the move. If appropriate, ask for their help and input into making decisions. Moving seniors can involve making some controversial decisions, so it’s best to deal with any potential conflict ahead of making the move.
3. Declutter and downsize
We recommend that everyone should do this when you move, but it’s especially important for seniors. If you’re moving them to a retirement village or similar facility, they won’t need as many household items as before. Work out exactly what they will need for their daily comfort and sell, recycle or donate the rest. This will also reduce moving costs and make unpacking much easier.
4. Make it feel like home
You’ll make the transition much smoother for a senior if you take a little time and effort to make their new accommodation feel like home. Make sure it’s clean and tidy, and deal with any repairs or renovations well before moving day. If you can hang art or decorate the space with familiar belongings, you’ll immediately make any new accommodation feel more like home.
5. Don’t overburden yourself
It’s easy to get bogged down in menial jobs when managing a move. Your highest priority should be to your senior and making their move comfortable and stress-free. Get help with packing and hire a professional moving company rather than trying to do it yourself. This will give you more time to focus on the important decisions that will make a big difference to their continuing quality of life.
Our moving team has huge experience in moving seniors, including international moves, across the country and to various retirement facilities. If we can be of any help, please give us a call on 0800 802 376.
