Moving seniors into a new home is a big life transition, especially because it comes at a late time in life. Help your elderly loved ones through this difficult process by considering the following tips.
Start Small
Discuss the move with your aging parents and help them understand what to expect. Let them do small tasks limited to 15 to 20 minutes a day. Allow them to decide what they can and cannot do, but make sure the decision is realistic. Small steps will prepare your parents for the move.
Take Pictures and Get a Room Layout
Arrange things so that their new home will resemble the old one as much as possible. Be detailed in arranging well-loved furniture and pictures. Make the new place feel like the old home. If your parents are moving to a smaller place, then decide together what they can keep. You may also discuss using a rented storage space for the things that won’t fit the new house but which you know your parents are not likely to throw out.
Plan the Move and Be Patient
Don’t let your parents feel rushed. Going through years of memories can be emotional. Let them absorb the change at their own pace. If your parents pause because of a stack of pictures they found, let them take the time to remember. Listen to their stories.
Help Sort
While it’s important to declutter your home, be gentle when you suggest getting rid of the possessions you no longer need. If it’s a treasure they’d like to keep but can’t fit in the new space, suggest giving it to a family member. It’s often easier to give away items if they know they’re going to a good home.
Be Kind
Keep in mind that seniors may have poor housekeeping habits due to health or mobility issues. Clean as you pack and don’t criticize. Remember that change gets harder the older we get and moving is a huge change. Let them know that you’re there to help.
Our elderly loved ones deserve the red-carpet treatment when moving. Best Buddies of Arlington, VA can ensure that. We treat each of your items with utmost care as if it was our own. Call one of our senior move managers today at (703) 828-1833.
