For many seniors, the move to senior living is rewarding. It helps maintain the life they love to live. However, moving is rarely a stress-free experience, so having a proper plan is key! By planning ahead, you’re making a significant step towards an easier move.
7 helpful moving tips for seniors include:
- Start planning early
- Declutter and downsize
- Pack smartly
- Reach out to family and friends
- Stay connected during the move
- Prioritize safety and comfort
- Find the right senior living community
Start Planning Early
Like most things, it’s essential to prepare ahead for the move. The sooner you plan everything out, the sooner you can begin.
Start by establishing a timeline of tasks leading up to the move. Make sure to consider:
- Preparing all materials, like boxes, tape, and labels
- Researching moving companies and gathering quotes
- Contacting the senior living community for moving guidelines
- Scheduling appointments for utility setup and disconnections
- Preparing a list of valuable documents and items for easy access
Then, make a point to start earlier. Give yourself time for the next steps. This gives you plenty of time to get everything done—without worrying about feeling rushed.
Declutter and Downsize
Moving to senior living is the perfect opportunity to declutter and downsize. This makes things much simpler when you arrive in your new home. It’s a chance to get rid of unnecessary items and belongings to reduce clutter.
Begin by separating the project into smaller, more manageable chunks. Work room by room and take your time. Try to separate everything you own into 4 piles:
- Keep, for everything you plan to bring along.
- Donate, for items that could benefit those in need.
- Sell, for items of value that are no longer needed.
- Discard, for items that are worn, broken, or unneeded.
This is an incredible chance to simplify your life and get rid of the clutter, so be patient. Remember, it’s okay to let go of things that have served you well in the past. This is going to be an emotional process, so take your time and be kind to yourself.
Pack Smartly
Packing efficiently is crucial. It’s easy to get carried away and go a little bit overboard. Try to create a system—and stick to it—to make things simpler.
Try to:
- Use smaller boxes, as they’re easier to lift and carry.
- Clearly label each box with contents and room.
- Keep essential items readily accessible at all times.
- Pack room by room to stay organized and reduce stress.
- Use padding and bubble wrap for fragile items to ensure their safe arrival.
- Invest in quality packing materials to protect your belongings.
This step is simple, but it can be difficult to carry out. If you strictly follow your system, you’ll be able to significantly lower the stress of the move.
Reach Out to Family & Friends
Communicate your moving plans to family and friends well ahead of time. Don’t be afraid to ask for help with packing, moving, or even simple emotional support. Your loved ones will likely be happy to help you through this journey.
Moving is a big project, and there’s no need to do it alone. Instead, trust your support system and reach out for help. This makes the process much easier and takes significant weight off your shoulders.
Stay Connected During the Move
Staying connected during the move is vital for your well-being. Moving to a new home can be daunting, so rely on your support network. This isn’t just about physical support. It’s about nurturing ties with the people that matter most.
Try to set up frequent phone or video calls to share your feelings. This can be incredibly soothing, especially when you’re packing. It’s easy to become overwhelmed during this process, so trust your loved ones.
Sometimes, a friendly face can make all the difference in the world. Staying connected with your loved ones during the move can help mitigate feelings of loneliness or anxiety.
Prioritize Safety and Comfort
Safety and comfort are paramount for older adults. During a big transition like a move, accidents can happen. At all times, make sure you’re staying safe and keeping yourself protected.
Make sure to:
- Have all necessary medications on hand and within reach.
- Pack a small bag of essentials for the first few days in your new home.
- Rest often and stay hydrated to avoid health problems.
- Ask for help with heavy lifting or strenuous tasks.
- Take breaks when needed to prevent exhaustion or injury.
Remember, it’s okay to take things slow. Your well-being is always worth prioritizing. Your safety and comfort should come first at all times.
Find the Right Senior Living Community
Finding the right senior living community is an essential step. Make sure you’re moving to a community that will support you in everything you do—a community like ours here at Fleming Farms Senior Living.
In our community, we take pride in supporting our residents every day. We’re ready to help you live a lifestyle you’ll love. Schedule a visit with us today to see for yourself!
