Navigating the Transition: Moving Services for Seniors
According to AHCA/NCAL, there are over 800,000 Americans residing in assisted living. Many of them are over the age of 85 and need help with only a few daily activities.
If your loved one is about to join this number by moving into a senior living community, it's important that they go about it the right way. The transition into a new home can be challenging for anyone. It's especially difficult for seniors who have spent decades in their current homes.
Here's how specialized moving services for seniors can make the transition much easier.
Key Features of Senior Moving Services
Assisted living transition help is a niche area within the moving industry. The primary focus is to address the specific needs of older adults who may struggle with moving out of their homes. Some of them are leaving a location with decades of memories, and that may involve parting with some valuable possessions.
These senior-friendly movers must incorporate empathy and efficiency throughout the entire process.
Packing and Organizing
Professional movers for seniors provide meticulous packing services. Older adults who struggle with mobility or organization will need help packing away items, sorting them, and transporting heavy boxes.
The movers they hire should label and organize boxes so the senior has an easier time unpacking them later.
Downsizing Assistance
Downsizing for the elderly is especially difficult if they have a long attachment to certain items. It's a significant part of many senior moves, especially if they're transitioning from a large family home to a smaller property or apartment.
Professional moving services should help them figure out what to get rid of before the move, what they should donate, and what they can keep.
Customized Moving Plans
Every senior's move is unique. Some older adults have mobility issues and will need more help than others. A senior may have a specific timeline they need to work with, so they'll want movers who are quick and punctual.
Always discuss your specific needs with a moving company before you hire them. In many cases, they should be able to accommodate you.
Emotional Support
Moving can evoke strong feelings of loss, nostalgia, or anxiety. Experienced movers should provide patience and understanding throughout the entire process.
Relocation and Setup
Some companies offer unpacking services in addition to transportation. They help carry your items inside the new residence, arrange furniture, and set up the new living space for comfort and accessibility.
In most cases, unpacking services are not included in the initial cost. However, they are especially handy for seniors who may not have family members to help them.
Benefits of Senior Moving Assistance
Senior moving services are a great boon for older individuals who need help getting their items from point A to point B.
One of the biggest benefits is reduced stress. The entire process is full of stressors, especially if you have a lot of things to toss out or store away. It helps if you can rely on the movers and focus more on the emotional aspect of the move.
If the moving company helps with downsizing, that could make your new home easier to maintain. Fewer items mean less cleaning, yard work, and repairs. You may also have lower utility bills.
While a DIY move will cost less, it's not always a viable option for seniors. Utilizing a moving company is key for those who don't have family or friends to rely on.
Tips for a Smoother Transition
Seniors who want an easier move should prepare in advance. A last-minute move not only creates anxiety but also causes problems for the movers.
Start Early
Begin planning and decluttering well in advance of the move date. Break the process down into smaller tasks over weeks to prevent last-minute stress. It would be best not to rely on your movers to pack items, as this can cost you extra.
Involve Family Members
Family support is invaluable during these big transitions. Loved ones can offer emotional encouragement, even if they aren't available to help with the physical move. They can help with decision-making as well as provide relocation tips.
Visit the New Residence
If possible, visit the new home before the move. It helps seniors to actually see the space and stand in it before deciding what belongings they can bring. They may also find visiting the new home can ease anxiety and make the transition smoother.
Much of this starts well before the senior starts packing. They should pick a suitable community with good reviews that can cater to their specific needs.
Creating a Moving Day Plan
Make a detailed schedule to follow on the moving day. This can help minimize confusion and avoid using your professional moving services for longer than necessary. Designate someone to supervise the process and address any unexpected issues.
Choosing Senior-Friendly Movers
When selecting a moving service, it's important that they have some experience working with seniors. Look for companies with a proven track record. Check their online reviews and ask for references as proof of their expertise.
Opt for a service that offers end-to-end assistance. Some movers will help you load up a truck but won't help you drive it or unload it at the destination. You may want to pay more for a mover that helps with packing and unpacking.
Verify that the company is licensed and insured. This can help protect against potential damages and hold them responsible. You'll also want to request a detailed quote upfront to avoid hidden fees.
Make Your Upcoming Move Easier
Moving services are a common investment for people moving from one home to another. Seniors often need specialized services due to the emotional impact of leaving their house and their potential physical limitations. As such, it's important to hire the right service for the big day.
Lakehouse Cedarburg is an assisted living community based out of Cedarburg, WI. Our residents have access to a wide variety of amenities to help them feel comfortable, such as personal care and housekeeping. Contact us with any questions and to schedule a tour.