Moving is a significant process for anyone, but it can be especially tough for seniors. In addition to the fact that seniors are often moving out of family homes (which requires them to downsize), many seniors require assistance with packing and moving. Some seniors find the process of finding that assistance challenging.
Fortunately, there is help for seniors! Our advice for seniors is to check out this list of proven & helpful tips for their next move!
Here at Master Movers, we help seniors and their families move every month, so we know a thing or two about how to make the process easier.
In this blog, we’ll share our top tips for senior moves, from packing to downsizing and beyond.
Let’s dive in.
Why Seniors Move
Before we discuss how seniors can enjoy easier moves, let’s talk about why seniors move in the first place.
Today’s seniors live longer than any generation before them, and most people look for ways to stay active, engaged, and connected in their golden years.
As a result, seniors are moving in larger numbers than ever before.
Here are the top four reasons seniors decide to relocate:
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To be closer to friends and family. According to a 2011 survey, 40% of people who move do so to be closer to their family members or friends.
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To enjoy a better quality of life. Many seniors move to enjoy warmer weather or more recreational opportunities or to be close to aging resource centers or communities.
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To downsize homes. Many seniors move out of large family homes into smaller, more manageable homes. Relocating to a new community or city may make finding the perfect home more affordable or accessible.
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To chase a passion. Seniors who want to continue working or learning may move to be closer to a passion or an opportunity that excites them.
In addition to the reasons above, seniors may move due to life changes, like family members who relocated, the death of a spouse or child, a financial windfall, and more.
4 Ways Seniors can Enjoy an Easier Move
Moving doesn’t have to be hard for you or your family! Follow these four moving advice for seniors tips to enjoy a streamlined process from start to finish:
1. Make a checklist to plan
At the top of the list for moving advice for seniors is “planning”! Planning is everything when it comes to moving, but it’s essential for seniors. With this in mind, make a checklist to help plan your move. Here’s a sample checklist we recommend:
2. Downsize and declutter
The best thing anyone can do to prepare for a move is to downsize. Over time, it’s easy to accumulate junk. In fact, about 80% of the items people keep are never used!
To make your move as easy as possible and avoid spending money moving things you don’t need, declutter and downsize before moving day.
Here are a few quick tips:
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Get rid of anything you haven’t used or worn in the last year.
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Choose sentimental items to give away or distribute to family members.
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Practice decluttering one room at a time.
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Get rid of anything that will not suit your new space or your new lifestyle.
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Ask for help – you don’t have to declutter alone! The Master Movers team will provide storage and relocation services to help you get organized and ready to go.
3. Pace yourself
Don’t wear yourself out on the move. Instead of leaving everything to the last minute, start planning a few months ahead of time. The moving timetable we included earlier in this post is a great way to organize and distribute your moving duties and avoid overwhelm.
In addition to pacing yourself, ask for help if you need it. Moving companies offer various services designed to make moves more manageable, and most will work with you to tailor services to suit your move.
4. Consider mobility needs
If you have mobility limitations, consider how you’ll get from Point A to Point B on moving day. If driving isn’t the best option, consider flying instead. Medical transit may be an option if you or a loved one has advanced medical needs.
Senior-focused transportation companies often offer non-emergency medical transit to help people with extra needs move comfortably and safely.
Master Movers: An Expert Moving Team Serving Seniors and Their Families
Moving can be difficult, but it doesn’t have to be stressful or impossible. Here at Master Movers, we work with seniors and their families to provide streamlined, efficient moves for elderly adults. Our team of expert movers offers local and long-distance moving services, packing, and more.
Ready to learn more about our team or how we can help you? We offer a six-day-a-week “talk to a real person” option to get an estimate. We’re open Monday – Saturday, 8 am to 6 pm. Contact us today to learn more!