For older adults, having to move from a longtime family home is physically and mentally stressful. A great deal of that anxiety can be alleviated with a little preparation — and assistance. Whether you are the person moving or helping someone move, these 5 tips can help make the transition a little smoother.
1. Use a cell-phone camera or take video of the house before packing to record the placement of objects and personal effects to re-create the locations at the new home.
2. Clean as you pack so items show up in the new location dust- and dirt-free.
3. Respect every personal possession, no matter how worn or in disrepair — memories come in a variety of packages!
4. Compare the size of the old place with the size of the new place in advance. Pack accordingly.
5. If hiring professional movers, find a company that specializes in moving elderly residents.
If possible, perhaps the most important advice is to be patient. Go as slowly as you can. Rushing creates stress during both the packing and unpacking. Give yourself and your loved ones plenty of time to properly sort, clean and pack before the day of the move.
5 ways to minimize moving stress for seniors
Organize your move with the help of family or friends. Always carefully mark the contents of each box so unpacking and setting up the new place will be much easier.