3 Top Tips for Your Senior Moving Checklist
Moving is one life experience that many will experience at least once in their lifetime. At one time or another, we packed up our belongings and set off for a new place to call home. Whether the move was just across town, to a nearby city or an entirely different state, no matter the distance or size of the residence, the moving process can be arduous.
Moving a senior family member or other loved one adds another layer of responsibility. Seniors have unique needs related to health, mobility, and more.
Relocation and downsizing for seniors
At the height of the pandemic, many families decided to move their senior loved ones out of senior living facilities and into family homes. While intergenerational homes in the United States are not new, their prevalence has grown fourfold since the 70s. It’s no surprise, as stats show that many seniors prefer to age in place.
Moving from a senior living facility into a family home or downsizing into a smaller location can involve considerable work, from the planning stage to the physical labor of packing and lifting. Creating a senior moving checklist attuned to individual needs will help reduce stress for everyone involved as the big day arrives.
Planning
When first starting, enlist the help of a partner or loved one to help you embark on your moving plan. Working as a team will help with delegating tasks and minimizing workload. A good moving plan will address the when, how, and where of the move.
Step one, choose a move date that provides enough time. Choose a moving date that doesn’t introduce schedule conflicts. Check the weather forecast to help ward against running into problems with rain, snow, or extreme heat.
Determine if you do the moving yourselves or hire movers. If the former, gather your supplies, such as ratchet straps, dollys and furniture coverings to prevent damage. If the latter, do your research, hire a trusted moving company and stay in communication with them before and during the move.
If there’s a new address, list any entities requiring notice of the change, such as banks and utility companies. Then delegate the list out to begin crossing off your list. When talking to them for the first time, make sure to get their names, phone numbers and email addresses for the next time you need to speak to them.
Packing
When packing to move a senior for relocation or downsizing, keep in mind that these are the belongings that represent a long life. In short, there’s a lot to consider. Work in phases, beginning with the most straightforward items to pack, like clothing, shoes, and bedding.
Moving or downsizing is an ideal time to take stock of belongings. Seniors may have items they no longer need or personal effects that they hold dear. Clear communication is key to ensuring proper disposal or safekeeping of personal belongings.
Remember that while paperwork is increasingly becoming digital, it’s likely that your senior loved one still has important documentation on paper. Make sure to put it in a safe, waterproof container that you can easily access during and after the move.
Medical concerns
Managing medical needs is among the most common — and significant — matters of moving a senior. If your loved one takes medications, check their supply to ensure they won’t run out during the move. Change the address on the prescription if necessary. Pack medications so they’re safely contained and easy to access during the move.
In the age of COVID-19, it may be necessary to get testing before the move to ensure the safety of everyone involved. If a senior falls ill before the move, contact their healthcare provider to find out how to safely proceed.
Armstrong knows you want the best for your senior loved ones. When relocation or downsizing is in order, call our trusted team at 888.288.7396 or request a free quote online to guide you every step of the way.
