A Guide to Helping Seniors to Move

For seniors, moving can be quite a challenge. The most common reason are health-related but some of them just want to downsize their home or get closer to their grandchildren. In order to assist your parents in moving to a new neighborhood, here are a few tips you can follow:

First, let's start with the basics - sorting. Help them organize their stuff. Seniors are more likely to have sentimental attachment on things. Ask them what items they'd like to keep and if the new space can't accommodate some furniture, offer suggestions. For example, you can tell them to give it to their grandchildren, siblings, or close friends.

There are a lot of factors that can contribute to a successful move, like your availability in helping your parents and financial reasons. This is also one of the instances wherein you have to be practical and realistic. The most important thing to do is to be patient when dealing with your parents. They may be less active but they can still participate in the process. Let them be involved in deciding on a plan of action. You can also give them small tasks to do like arranging a desk drawer, or you can ask them what they like to do. Have them pack some of the items in their rooms starting with less sentimental rooms to their valued items. If they start reminiscing, take time to listen. Give them enough time to contemplate on the idea of moving so they don't feel rushed.

Seniors are susceptible to moving scams so make sure you take care of the details when selecting a moving company. Hiring professional movers can greatly help in packing, loading your items, and safe transport. There are several companies that can handle moving senior citizens and will arrange the tasks you need most help including selling the home and hiring reliable movers.

One advice that most professional movers give is to not change everything. You can keep the same paint colors and room arrangement in their new home. Make notes to important reminders. This will help them in adapting to the new environment.