Older adults and senior citizens face unique challenges when moving, ones that can often prevent them from effectively preparing for the move. Their adult children will often step in to assist in the process, and while that is helpful, it can also create some difficulties for the movers. To make your mother or father’s move as smooth as possible, we offer the following advice.
1. Downsize
Use this time to decide what is important and necessary to keep. Organize items into the following categories: to keep, to sell, to donate, to recycle or dispose of.
2. Agree upon a decision-maker
While family members can be of great help, it is difficult for a moving company when they do not know which person they should be communicating with. Sit down with your family members and choose a “liaison” that will be the primary point of contact with the moving consultant or move coordinator. This is easier on all parties and lessens potential for miscommunication.
3. Use the destination floor plan to decide beforehand where you want items to go
Many of us can be indecisive when it comes to arranging furniture in our home, and if you are downsizing, this can be a particular challenge. If you use the new home’s floor plan, you can decide beforehand where items should go. This makes it faster and easier for the move-in crew, and will help your parent be more comfortable with the fast pace of the move.
4. Have special requests ready ahead of time
If you have any special requests, such as adding items or stops to your move, be sure your moving company is informed. Beginning the move with an organized plan helps ensure that everything will go smoothly, with minimal interruptions.
Allowing the move to keep, well, moving is key. By following the above advice, you can help make your parent’s move go as smooth as possible.
Do you have any other questions about moving your parents? Leave us a comment below.
– JK Moving Services
