A Checklist for Moving Your Elderly Parents

As a middle aged adult, perhaps you find yourself having to help your elderly parents with more and more tasks. While those tasks may have been small up till now, such as mowing the lawn or driving them to doctor appointments, they may be upping the game with a move in Richmond VA.

Moving your senior parents from one home to another can be daunting, but the first step is to hire a moving company that specializes in senior moves. That will form the ground work for the job at hand, setting the stage for a seamless, stress-free relocation.

Check out this handy checklist for moving your elderly parents into a new home or assisted living community.

Talk About the Downsize

Before you pack a single box, it’s time to have “the talk” with your parents. Prior to the big move, talk with your parents about downsizing and all the benefits that come with it. Perhaps they have medical or mobility issues that preclude them from shoveling the driveway in winter, tending to the garden in summer or cleaning all the rooms in the big house they raised all their kids in.

Maybe they’re on a fixed income now, too, and can’t afford a large home and the upkeep that comes with it.

De-Clutter

Now that the decision to move has been made, it’s time to de-clutter in anticipation of the downsize. They simply can’t bring everything with them if they’re moving into a smaller place, so some stuff will have to go. This may be difficult for them. Carefully evaluate each item with them and categorize it into three piles: keep, donate/sell or trash.

Sell good condition items at a yard sale or online, or donate to their favorite charity. Belongings with a high sentimental value can be placed into storage or passed down to a grandchild.

Safety

When searching for a new place for your elderly parents, keep their health, safety and well-being in mind. While they may be able to get around quite well now, they may not be able to in the near future. Consider any modifications that may have to be added, such as grab bars in the shower or a master bedroom located on the main floor. Consider accessibility features such as soft-slam cabinets, levered door handles, and lowered countertops.

Open Lines of Communication

The move will likely bring up some emotions, not just for your parents but for yourself and your siblings. This could be the home they built together when they first got married, raising their family through the decades. It’s not easy to leave those memories behind. But keeping the lines of communication open between all parties will help. Involve siblings, grandchildren and lifelong neighborhood friends to help with the packing and planning.

Start Early

When packing up the house, take your time. Sort through each room, going in stages. Clean as you go. Your parents can’t run from room to room any longer, so the packing and prepping process will take more time than you may have anticipated. Give them space, and offer to help wherever you can as you pave the way for their new journey in life.

Contact Heroes Moving and Storage

Looking to help your elderly parents move to or from Richmond VA? Get a free quote when you contact us at 804-409-0429. Rest assured, we specialize in senior moves!