Moving Made Simple: A Comprehensive Guide for Seniors

Jul 14

3 min read

An elderly couple is packing boxes in a bright, modern kitchen. The man, wearing glasses and a blue shirt, is holding a stack of newspapers, while the woman, also in a blue shirt, is smiling and holding packing tape. They appear to be enjoying the process of preparing for a move, surrounded by partially packed boxes and packing materials. The kitchen has a clean, organized look with white cabinets and pendant lights.

As we grow older, our homes may no longer meet our changing needs. Whether it's the challenge of maintaining a large property, navigating stairs, or living in an isolated area, many seniors find that downsizing is a beneficial step. But how do you start the process? Moving can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. Here, we’ve broken down the moving process into six easy steps, complete with helpful checklists to ensure a smooth transition to your new home.

Step 1: Choosing Your Moving Team

The first step in your moving journey is to try and assemble your “moving team.” But managing everything on your own can be stressful, so it’s essential to have the right kind of support. Your team might include family, friends, neighbors, or professional senior moving services like us.

When selecting your team though, you have to consider two main categories of tasks: packing and moving. Family and friends who are organized can assist with packing, while those who are physically strong can help with lifting and transporting boxes. But sometimes, hiring professionals is the best choice to ensure a seamless and safe move.

Two men are carrying boxes in a bright room with wooden floors and arched windows. One man, wearing a cap and dark clothing, is holding a single box, while the other man, dressed in a dark shirt and pants, is carrying a stack of two large boxes. The room has a few unpacked boxes and a green armchair in the background, indicating a moving or relocation process. The scene is well-lit with natural light streaming through the windows.

Dave Dembinski, Vice President of Operations at Grasons Estate Sales, highlights the benefits of professional help: "Hiring professionals to handle packing, moving, and estate sales can significantly reduce stress. It allows seniors to focus on other aspects of the move and ensures a smoother transition."

Step 2: Decide What to Take With You

Before you start packing, decide what to bring and what to leave behind. This step is particularly important if you’re downsizing. Compare the size of your current home to your new one and be realistic about what you can take. Many senior living communities offer resources for space planning, which can be very helpful.

Start by creating an inventory of your belongings. You can do this yourself or hire a service. Ultimately, you should review the inventory to decide what will stay and what will go.

Step 3: Organize and Declutter

Decluttering your home early can make the packing process much easier. Identify treasured items you want to keep and those that you can donate, sell, or gift.

Dave Dembinski advises: "Seniors have accumulated a lifetime of belongings, which can make moving overwhelming. Identify items that hold sentimental value and downsize by donating, selling, or gifting items you no longer need."

Consider holding an estate sale for valuable items you no longer need. Working with a reputable estate sale service can help you organize the sale and maximize returns.

Two elderly women are packing and organizing belongings in a living room. One woman, wearing a striped sweater and a headscarf, is crouched down, packing items into a green bag. The other woman, in a beige cardigan and white pants, is bent over a cardboard box, carefully placing items inside. The room has a cozy atmosphere with a wicker basket, folded linens, and a fireplace in the background. The scene captures a moment of teamwork and organization.

Step 4: Start Packing Early

Packing always takes longer than expected, so start early. Rushing can lead to misplaced or damaged items. If you hire a full-service senior mover, this step might not apply.

Packing Tips:

Buy standard-sized boxes: They’re easier to stack and more durable.
Buy extra boxes: You’ll likely need more than you think.
Label boxes clearly: This helps in placing them in the correct rooms upon arrival.

Step 5: Prepare for Moving Day

Handle practical matters before moving day arrives. Set up mail forwarding, update your address on online accounts, and switch prescriptions to a new local pharmacy if needed. Use our checklist of 10 Things Not to Forget When You’re Moving to ensure nothing is overlooked.

Set aside a “last-minute” box with essentials for the day of the move and the immediate days after. This includes medications, important documents, basic toiletries, and a change of clothes.

Step 6: Unpack and Settle In

After the move, it's tempting to delay unpacking. However, unpacking some essential and favorite items can help you feel at home sooner. Setting up your bedroom and familiar items first can make your first night more comfortable. If you used a moving company, inspect items for damage as you unpack.

An elderly couple is sitting on a comfortable gray sofa in their living room, watching TV. The man, holding a remote control, is wearing a light blue shirt and a navy blue cardigan, while the woman, smiling and leaning on his shoulder, is dressed in a light pink top and a beige cardigan. The room is decorated with framed pictures on the wall, a green floor lamp, and floral-patterned curtains. The atmosphere is cozy and relaxed, with natural light coming through the window.

Conclusion

Moving can be a daunting task, especially for seniors, but with careful planning and the right support, it can be a smooth and positive experience. By following these six steps and utilizing our checklists, you can ensure a stress-free move and enjoy the exciting new chapter in your life.

At Moves by Faith Moving & Deliveries, we understand the unique needs of seniors and are dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Whether you are downsizing to a smaller home, transitioning to a senior living community, or moving in with a relative, our aim is to make the process smooth for you. Book your free in-home estimate below!!

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C J

Jul 14

3 min read