Between stressful packing efforts, mover delays, and damaged furniture, relocating to a new home is a whirlwind experience—especially for older adults. Unfortunately, mobility and dexterity deterioration can make moving a potentially dangerous and nearly impossible task for aging citizens.
Fortunately, you can sidestep moving-related obstacles by adhering to the following stress-free guide to relocating as a senior.
Hire professionals
Mobility-impaired seniors may face limited ability to transport heavy boxes, bulky furniture, or multiple vehicles to a new city or state. However, hiring professional movers and auto transporters like Guardian Auto Transport will their move go off without a hitch. Instead of laborious lifting and bodily stress, you can focus your efforts on other aspects of the move, allowing capable movers to relocate your items safely.
Downsize your belongings
One way to make moving more manageable is to downsize your belongings before beginning packing endeavors. By shrinking your inventory and ridding your space of unneeded, broken, or outdated items, you will ease packing and unpacking efforts by a landslide. Plus, fewer valuables mean fewer fees from frustrated movers.
If you’re unsure what to do with all your belongings, consider holding a garage sale to rehome usable items or hiring a removalist for junk.
Pack an essentials box
A necessary step in reducing stress while relocating is setting aside an essentials box while you wait for your belongings to arrive. Fill your bag with a change of clothes, toiletries, electronics, and anything else you might need during your first couple of nights to avoid panicked trips to the store and sleepless nights.
Know that it’s OK to be emotional
It’s normal to feel sad, nostalgic, or even depressed when relocating to a new home after years spent making precious memories in your past space. Instead of pushing down unpleasant feelings, acknowledge any emotions that arise and be patient with yourself as you adjust to a new environment.
Pick a reputable doctor
Things will already be emotional and hectic while moving or relocating later in life. To reduce some future hassle, it would be wise for you to select a physician near your location.
This way, in case you or your partner ever get sick or experience any health issues, you might feel relief knowing that there are ‘doctor offices near me.’ A professional’s advice and help will allow you to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
You may also think about talking to a primary care specialized provider near you. For instance, Oakstreet has an excellent primary care facility for older people. While relocating, you may choose a place like that for future help.
Know your new floorplan
If you’re moving into a retirement community or assisted living facility, familiarize yourself with the floorplan prior to moving in day. That way, you can begin planning furniture and decor setups, speeding the process along once your belongings arrive at your new home.
Plus, learning the lay of the land can reduce discomfort and anxiety during the first week, as you’ll have some grasp on amenities, social areas, and any places to avoid.
Get organized and take your time
Moving can be overwhelming, but implementing a solid organizational plan can help speed the process forward and reduce stress along the way. Instead of tossing items into boxes willy-nilly, coordinate your belongings and label each box accordingly for easy access during unpacking efforts.
Additionally, keep track of any important dates, payments, or deadlines to bypass unexpected stress-filled scrambles and late fees.
Conclusion
Following the tips above can help you iron out any moving-related bumps and keep everything running smoothly. Do your best to stay organized, take your time, and ask for help when you need it. And most importantly, don’t forget to give yourself time to adjust to your new home and surroundings.
