For the elders in our lives who need extra care and attention, moving takes a lot more special consideration that we might be used to. Even if you’re no stranger to moving, seniors live considerably different lifestyles with different requirements for living and moving. It takes a more careful approach and thorough research.
Whether you’re a senior yourself or you’re helping one search for the right home, keep reading for our list of most frequently asked questions about senior moving.
SENIOR MOVING FAQS
Q: HOW DO WE KNOW WE’RE CHOOSING THE RIGHT HOME?
A: If you’re moving your senior-aged loved one to an independent residence, it’s important to know that no size fits all ages.
For example, things like the surrounding ambiance, common areas, the neighborhood, and the services that the building provides are all important contributors to one’s quality of life—especially for seniors. Taking your time to evaluate the residence in person is so important.
Q: WHAT SHOULD WE LOOK FOR IN ASSISTED LIVING FACILITIES?
A: Starting with location is always a good first step. Even healthy older folks should have easy access to quality health care facilities. But a healthy lifestyle doesn’t end there. For many seniors, life isn’t limited to the walls of their care facility—we need to be close to the activities that we enjoy in order to live well-rounded lives.
Next, look for single-level living. Homes that have stairs, just a few steps, or even sunken rooms can be problematic for seniors with reduced mobility. This goes for showers, too. Even if your physical health is in decent condition now, it’s important to plan for the future.
Spacious hallways and wide doorways make room for walkers and wheelchairs. Look for homes with 36-inch doorways.
As for meals, most homes offer meals in a dedicated dining hall. Keep in mind that your budget will have to accommodate this additional service.
Q: WHAT SHOULD WE DO WITH OLD BELONGINGS?
A: Downsizing is a natural next step for seniors moving to a new home. It doesn’t matter if you’re moving to a smaller apartment or a senior care facility—you’ll have to shed some weight. There’s a lot of difficult decision-making involved in deciding what to get rid of, but it’s also an opportunity to create a fresh, clean start for the next chapter of your life.
One person’s trash is another’s treasure—donating and selling the belongings you no longer need can fulfill the needs of others.
And after downsizing, you’ll have a much smoother time packing and moving.
Q: WHEN IS THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO MOVE?
A: If you’re not on an urgent timeline, it’s best to wait for warm weather. With ice on the ground and dangerous road conditions, winter moving poses serious risks for seniors. For that very reason, on the other hand, summer is an extremely busy season, making it much harder to book a moving company.
Consider choosing spring or autumn and get moving estimates months in advance so you can book your move before the season ends.
Q: ARE THERE MOVERS WHO SPECIALIZE IN SENIOR MOVING?
A: Yes! Never settle for amateur movers who don’t have dedicated senior moving services.
Whether you’re a senior who is downsizing from a family home, or you’re trying to help move a senior parent into an assisted living facility, we have intimate knowledge of the multiple steps involved and have experience finding the right solution.
You can have a stress-free, safe, and strategic move as a senior citizen. Start by asking the Two Small Men senior movers for a free estimate. We’re ready to help with the same care and attention we would give our own family members.