Deciding to move can be a big decision for anyone, especially seniors. The factors that go into moving – logistics, planning, and packing – can make it feel like an overwhelming decision. While it can be a stressful process, following these tips can reduce the anxiety seniors face when planning a big move:
1. Research Potential Homes
Before deciding where to move, research some key places they’re considering. While researching can feel like a significant task, you can help by sharing the responsibility.
When moving from one home to another, choosing the right neighborhood comes first. Look for one designed with older adults in mind. Those may include public transportation stops, sidewalks with wheelchair access, or opportunities for volunteering.
When considering a senior living community, it’s helpful to know how many rooms are available, the amenities offered, and the overall cost. Visiting a home gives an opportunity to meet the residents and get their opinions on living there. The right home will make them feel safe, secure, and cared for.
2. Help Downsize
When seniors plan to move, they may need to downsize their possessions. You can help by encouraging them to start early. Sometimes, the need to move might be urgent, leading to anxiety around the event. By being proactive, seniors can maintain control and autonomy, and downsize according to their terms. Helping clear out unnecessary belongings can turn into a bonding experience. Seniors can reflect on their lives, share stories and memories, and say goodbye to what they don’t need to take along.
3. Positivity is Key
Some older adults may experience Relocation Stress Syndrome (or “Transfer Trauma”) – a set of symptoms triggered when moving from one environment to another. In these cases, older adults may feel depressed and withdrawn, and their state of mind can lead to further serious health conditions. Maintaining a positive attitude about moving can rub off on them. Staying involved in their lives can greatly improve their mood and outlook about transitioning to a new home.
A simple but useful way to help seniors stay positive and motivated is to make them feel needed. If they’re moving in with you, find activities or tasks they can help with around the house. If they’re moving into a senior living community, stay in touch with them, share updates about your life, and ask for their advice and opinions when appropriate.
4. Encourage Hiring Movers
After planning the move, getting from point A to B should be the easiest part of the process. Helping your seniors hire movers alleviates stress around moving. Movers will walk through the logistics and planning process of the move itself. When booking a moving company, look for one with experience relocating older adults with services that match their individual needs.
Your Help Creates a Seamless Transition: Moving can be a challenging process but an exciting one as well. With your help, seniors can feel at ease moving into a home where they’ll feel safe and valued. For further assistance in planning your senior’s move, reach out to us at www.OasisSeniorAdvisors.com.
