Seniors all around the country are packing up and starting over for many reasons, this includes downsizing after retirement or relocating to be closer to their adult children and grandchildren. Relocating as a senior comes with its own set of problems, especially if you have medical concerns or physical restrictions that might make the process more difficult. Here are some tips to assist seniors in packing and relocating with ease.
Start Early
The amount of boxes and furniture you have will determine how long it takes to pack and move. If you have multiple valuables, for example, you will need additional time to wrap and pack each one properly. In addition, the distance between your new home and your old one, as well as the weather, will influence how long it takes to relocate.
Think About the Floor Plan & Space
After retirement or when their children leave the nest, many older Americans downsize. When determining what to keep when relocating to a smaller house, townhouse, or condominium, keep the floor plan and layout in mind. Making a floor plan sketch with the measurements of each room can assist you in determining if your furniture will fit.
Based on the floor plans of your new home, walk through each room and decide what will stay and what will go. Whatever you don’t want to bring should be given to friends, family, donated or sold.
Leave as much empty floor space as possible if you have limited mobility. When you cram too many things into a small space, you risk tripping.
Value & Appraise Your Belongs
Appraise and insure your valuables, such as artwork, jewelry, or furniture. Before moving, take photos of the things to prove their condition. Ask a professional to come to your home if you have many or larger items to appraise.
Smaller items can be taken to professional appraisers, such as jewelry, antiques, or unique items like a large baseball card collection.
Make The Process of Moving Easier
You can assist the moving company by doing the following things as they pack and unload your belongings into the truck:
- Make a moving day essentials box. On the day of the relocation, gather everything you’ll need, including medications, clothing, and toiletries. This eliminates the need for you to enter various rooms while the movers are working.
- Control the flow of traffic. Assist the movers by indicating where you want items placed when you get to your new home.
- Making yourself or a family member available to answer any questions to assist the movers in completing their job properly.
If you are a senior relocating and would like some help, we can help make moving less stressful. Contact Senior Transitions at 248-983-4500 and let our Senior Move Managers help you as little or as much as you need. Cheers to a new beginning in life!
