Moving is a strenuous process for anyone. It takes a lot out of you physically and mentally. Unfortunately, sometimes it’s one of those tasks you can’t avoid. However, it also marks the beginning of an exciting new adventure. As the stress starts to sink in, try to stay in good spirits and remind yourself of all the positives about your new home.
If you’re assisting an older loved one in the moving process, they will appreciate your patience, love, and helping hands more than you know. Moving with an aging individual may take a little longer and require some different preparations and steps.
As a professional moving company, we’ve helped thousands of Utahns old and young make the move to another house. Here are seven things to keep in mind while helping your senior parent, relative, or friend with their move.
1. Encourage When it’s Time to Downsize
It’s hard to face the reality that your current home may be too much upkeep for you. We want to believe we’ll have endless energy and strength forever. Facing this reality can be quite disheartening. For older individuals, it can feel like just yesterday they were stepping on Legos and yearning for MORE space. Now, the mere thought of walking from one end of the house to the other is exhausting.
If your loved one feels exhausted in their spacious home or finds it difficult to navigate stairs and care for the yard, it may be time to move before these things become even more difficult. It is the perfect opportunity for you to be a source of love and comfort for them as they make this challenging transition.
2. Communicate, Communicate, Communicate
Don’t forget to let your elderly parent, relative, or friend feel in control of their situation. It can be hard to face such a significant change while not being able to do as much as you once were able to. Sadness and apprehension are normal. Make sure to communicate with them so you know their needs throughout the process. Give your loved one as much choice as possible as they navigate their new normal. Communication is key.
3. Make a Plan
It’s vital to make a plan with your loved one before the sorting, organizing, and moving process begins. Having a visual will help you better understand what you’re getting yourself into and what must be done to accomplish it. Which rooms need to be furnished? How many square feet is the new residence? More power to you if you sketch out the new floorplan and cut out pieces of paper representing furniture. The organization is critical. Planning is key. Staying ahead of your tasks will help everything to go smoother.
4. Organize Belongings
The organization is very crucial throughout the entire moving process. Before boxing items to move, take the time to organize and sort them to make it easier when you unpack everything. Sorting through years of stuff is no small task, so start far in advance before your move.
Make a list of items to accomplish each day, and take it one day at a time. This will help to reduce stress and anxiety. It can be tough to part with certain items, but if you’re downsizing, you certainly can’t bring everything with you. Purge, donate, declutter, dejunk, and you will feel much better afterward.
5. Enlist Family
Don’t be afraid to ask for help, especially from family. It can be hard to seek help, but people are usually very willing to offer a hand. Plus, it’s a big job and will get done faster with some help. Your senior parent or relative will feel much comfort being surrounded by loved ones to help during this transitional time. Part of a church or group? Ask them for help as well. People are usually more giving than we give them credit for.
6. Embrace Your Emotions
A big move can bring on a whirlwind of emotions. Don’t try to brush them away. It’s normal. It’s OK. Change is hard, but change is good. Help your loved one know that they are not alone and that their emotions are valid. Try to help them look at their new move as an opportunity for a fresh start—a chance to make something all their own and add their charm to it.
7. Settle into the New Home
Help your loved one give their new place a unique touch. Add family pictures. Put out their favorite décor. Make it feel like THEIR home. This will make it easier to get settled and feel comfortable. Give them time to unwind, relax and take it all in. Perhaps a housewarming party or a small get-together with family would be nice. Then, try to get a feel for the surroundings. Go with them to meet neighbors, take a drive, and explore the town. All the moving is over; it’s time for the fun part.
Moving with an elderly parent or relative can be extra tough physically, mentally, and emotionally. Try to focus on the positives and show as much love as possible. Between you and the Utah moving company, you’ve got this!
Infographic
If you’re helping an older family member move, they will value your patience, love, and assistance more than you realize. Moving with an elderly person may take longer and involve different preparations and steps, but it’s worth it to help them with the process. Consider these seven helpful tips if you are assisting a senior parent, relative, or friend with their move.
Video
