{"id":22230,"date":"2024-03-06T09:00:00","date_gmt":"2024-03-06T13:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.mymovingreviews.com\/move\/?p=22230"},"modified":"2025-09-05T11:41:55","modified_gmt":"2025-09-05T15:41:55","slug":"senior-moving-assistance","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/senior-moving-assistance\/","title":{"rendered":"Checklist for Moving Elderly Parents: Senior Moving Assistance"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" data-aspectratio=\"690\/445\" width=\"690\" height=\"445\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.mymovingreviews.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/elderly-parents-1.jpg\" alt=\"checklist for moving elderly parents\" class=\"wp-image-42046 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/elderly-parents-1.jpg 690w, https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/elderly-parents-1-300x193.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 690px) 100vw, 690px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A home is where the heart is.<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-ultimate-post-table-of-content ultp-block-e5e162\"><div class=\"ultp-block-wrapper\"><div class=\"ultp-block-toc\"><div class=\"ultp-toc-header\"><div class=\"ultp-toc-heading\">Table of Contents<\/div><div class=\"ultp-collapsible-toggle  ultp-collapsible-right\"><a class=\"ultp-collapsible-text ultp-collapsible-open\" href=\";\">[Open]<\/a><a class=\"ultp-collapsible-text ultp-collapsible-hide\" href=\";\">[Close]<\/a><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ultp-block-toc-style1 ultp-block-toc-body\"><ul class=\"ultp-toc-lists\"><li><a href=\"_Communication_And_Choice\">Stage 1: Communication And Choice<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"_Relocation_Planning\">Stage 2: Relocation Planning<\/a><ul class=\"ultp-toc-lists\"><li><a href=\"#_Start_the_moving_preparations_as_early_as_possible_\">1. Start the moving preparations as early as possible <\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#_Decide_where_your_parents_will_be_moving_to\">2. Decide where your parents will be moving to<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#_Find_an_appropriate_new_home_for_your_elderly_parents\">3. Find an appropriate new home for your elderly parents<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#_Find_out_what_items_your_parents_can_bring_along_\">4. Find out what items your parents can bring along <\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#_Help_your_parents_sort_and_organize_their_belongings\">5. Help your parents sort and organize their belongings<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#_Take_care_of_all_the_required_paperwork\">6. Take care of all the required paperwork<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#_Hire_professional_senior_relocation_services\">7. Hire professional senior relocation services<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"_Consider_Hiring_a_Senior_Move_Manager\">Alternative Option: Consider Hiring a Senior Move Manager<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"_Packing_For_The_Move\">Stage 3: Packing For The Move<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"_Moving_Day\">Stage 4: Moving Day<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>A home is not just a roof over the head \u2013 it is a place that offers comfort and peace, a sanctuary where you can be yourself and find refuge from the hostile outside world, a safe haven that reflects your personality, stores your memories, and gives rise to your dreams. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And the longer you live in the same house or apartment, the more emotionally vested in your <em>sweet home<\/em> you become.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It comes as no surprise then that the elderly, who have spared a lot of time, effort, and money to create their <em>dream home<\/em>, spent many years in it, experienced many life-defining moments among its walls, accumulated many treasured possessions, and achieved a sense of security, independence, and self-fulfillment in their current surroundings, will find it very difficult \u2013 both emotionally and physically &#8211; to leave their beloved homes and move someplace else.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Moving seniors is an enormous challenge that requires time, patience, and immaculate organization. To ensure a smooth transition, you need to be kind, compassionate, and very well-prepared. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Having professional senior moving assistance will also help a lot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The comprehensive checklist for moving elderly parents will take you through all the stages of the arduous senior relocation process \u2013 from downsizing and packing to finding the best senior moving services and reducing the stress for your elderly parents. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Make sure you give it a close look when planning the relocation of senior loved ones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Stage_:_Communication_And_Choice\">Stage 1: Communication And Choice<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Moving house is always <a href=\"\/move\/why-moving-is-hard\/\">difficult and nerve-racking<\/a>, even more so when one needs to leave a cozy and comfortable home that has been their personal haven for many years. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Get the best price for long-distance movers\u2014watch this guide first!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"\ud83d\ude9a How Much Does It Cost to Hire Long-Distance Movers in 2025? \ud83d\udce6\ud83d\udcb8\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/NGdF8-m2S-g?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>It is, therefore, expected that there will be great sadness and apprehension when a senior citizen cannot live in their large family home on their own anymore and he or she needs to relocate \u2013 whether to a retirement community or to a smaller place closer to their children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Convincing your own aging parents that it is in their best interest to downsize and move when they no longer have the strength and the energy to maintain the household (or when they require regular medical care), will be, without a doubt, a tough and heart-rending process. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is, however, the only reasonable solution, so you need to find a way to help them understand the situation and make the transition easier:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list ul_ol_padding\">\n<li><strong>Discuss the matter at length<\/strong> \u2013 talk with them about why they need to move and where they might relocate to;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Give your elderly parents time to think it over<\/strong>, grieve their loss, and accept the change;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Point out all the positive aspects of the move<\/strong> \u2013 fewer responsibilities, less work, greater safety, better healthcare, a chance to meet new people and make new friends, a chance to spend more time with you and their grandchildren (if they\u2019ll be moving closer to you), etc.;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Give them as much choice as possible<\/strong> \u2013 let them choose their new home (or the living community they\u2019ll be moving to), get them involved in the moving preparations, let them pick what comes with them, take their wishes into account, etc.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image wp-image-22236\">\n<figure class=\"alignright\"><img src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" data-aspectratio=\"450\/274\" width=\"450\" height=\"274\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.mymovingreviews.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/communication.jpg\" alt=\"Help your parents understand why it is better for them to move.\" class=\"wp-image-22236 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/communication.jpg 450w, https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/communication-300x183.jpg 300w, https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/communication-400x244.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">If your mom is unwilling to leave her old home, no matter what you say, play your trump card &#8211; there will be no need for letters anymore, she&#8217;ll be able to see you and her grandchildren much more often!<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Keep in mind that when seniors are asked to leave their beloved homes, the most frequent cause of distress is the perceived sense of loss \u2013 loss of comfort zone, loss of social circle, loss of control, loss of independence, loss of self. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To ensure a smooth transition, you need to reduce this sense of loss and powerlessness \u2013 the only way to do so is to be patient and considerate, offer unconditional support, and assure your elderly parents how much you care about them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"\/move\/moving-checklist\/\">Moving Checklist: The Greatest Moving Checklist of All Time<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Stage_:_Relocation_Planning\">Stage 2: Relocation Planning<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Once the decision is made, there comes the great challenge of organizing the move. Everyone knows how much time and effort goes into <a href=\"\/move\/how-to-plan-a-move\/\">making a relocation run smoothly<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When it comes to moving the elderly from their home, however, the process requires even more careful consideration and planning because it means helping the seniors with major downsizing and laborious packing, as well as finding expert senior movers who will know how to handle the relocation in a safe, efficient, ethic, and compassionate manner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To be sure that you\u2019ll be able to take proper care of all the arduous moving tasks and won\u2019t overlook any specific aspect of the senior relocation process, you\u2019re going to need a specialized senior relocation checklist. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The one below is certain to be of great help:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"_Start_the_moving_preparations_as_early_as_possible_\">1. Start the moving preparations as early as possible <\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Start at least four months before the move (preferably six). <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Your parents will need plenty of time to get used to the idea of an imminent change and say their goodbyes \u2013 revisit their favorite places in the area, spend some more time with their friendly neighbors, go through their possessions, remembering the stories behind them and reminiscing about the past, etc. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Besides, they\u2019ll be getting tired very quickly and will be doing everything at a much slower pace than you\u2019re used to.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Also, don\u2019t forget that the earlier you book the move the greater choice of reliable and experienced senior movers you\u2019ll have.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"_Decide_where_your_parents_will_be_moving_to\">2. Decide where your parents will be moving to<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Research your options, discuss your parents\u2019 needs and wishes with them, and decide if they will be moving to an assisted living community (or a retirement community) or to a smaller home, closer to you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list ul_ol_padding\">\n<li><strong>Evaluate <\/strong>your parents\u2019 health and need for specialized medical care;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Consider <\/strong>whether your parents need constant supervision or assistance or if they can do most daily activities on their own;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Evaluate <\/strong>your own ability to provide care for your aging parents;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Decide on the most appropriate location for<\/strong> the new residence.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"_Find_an_appropriate_new_home_for_your_elderly_parents\">3. Find an appropriate new home for your elderly parents<\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-image-22243\">\n<figure class=\"alignright\"><img src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" data-aspectratio=\"450\/307\" width=\"450\" height=\"307\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.mymovingreviews.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/nice-new-home.jpg\" alt=\"Pick the right new home when moving elderly parents.\" class=\"wp-image-22243 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/nice-new-home.jpg 450w, https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/nice-new-home-300x205.jpg 300w, https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/nice-new-home-400x273.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Make sure you find a place your elderly parents are going to love.<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Research the conditions in different living communities and take your parents to the ones you think will be most appropriate for them, so that they can experience the atmosphere in person and choose the place they like the best.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Also, research the available housing options in your chosen area and take your parents to see the houses (or apartments) you consider to best suit their needs so that they can determine where they\u2019ll feel most at home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"_Find_out_what_items_your_parents_can_bring_along_\">4. Find out what items your parents can bring along <\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If your parents will be moving to a retirement community, check the rules about what possessions residents can and cannot bring. The requirements can vary considerably from one community to the next. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Besides, some furniture and other household items may be provided by the facility, so there will be no need to bring the same things.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If your parents will be moving to a new smaller home, find out how much space the place has. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Then, plot a <a href=\"\/move\/create-a-floor-plan\/\">floor plan of the new home<\/a> on graph paper and cut out pieces of paper to represent furniture and other major household items. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sit down with your parents and sketch out what can go where \u2013 this will not only help them assess how much of their stuff will fit in and how to best arrange the new space but will also eliminate some of the harder decisions about what to get rid of.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"_Help_your_parents_sort_and_organize_their_belongings\">5. Help your parents sort and organize their belongings<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Deciding the fate of their possessions is one of the toughest challenges seniors face when moving house. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The decision whether to keep something or part with it is often emotional, not rational. This may easily result in a conflict, so you need to be very gentle when suggesting to <a href=\"\/move\/get-rid-of-unwanted-items\/\">get rid of an item<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Honor <\/strong>your parents\u2019 emotional attachment to their personal belongings and allow them to reminisce as you help sort out their possessions. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Remember <\/strong>that you\u2019re helping them part with material objects and not part with memories \u2013 listen to their stories, be kind and considerate, and let them keep items of extremely high sentimental value, no matter how worthless they may seem to you. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Remind <\/strong>your parents, however, that discarding an item does not mean discarding the associated cherished memory or the feelings it evokes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Explain <\/strong>to them that every sold piece will add some money to their budget and every donated item will benefit another human being.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Go <\/strong>through the house item by item with your parents. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ask <\/strong>them if they use the object and if it has any special meaning to them. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Suggest <\/strong>selling or giving away things that don\u2019t have a high practical or sentimental value. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Categorize <\/strong>each and every item: to be moved, to be left with family, to be sold, to be donated, or to be thrown out.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If your parents insist on keeping more stuff than their new place can accommodate, try to find alternative solutions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Offer to store some of the items in your home, arrange for a relative or a close friend to take others, and ask your mom and dad to keep only one \u201crepresentative\u201d of an entire group of sentimental items (one souvenir from their honeymoon, one of your grandmother\u2019s hand-woven rugs, the most valuable piece of a large collection, etc.). <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This will help save space and will ease your parents\u2019 anxiety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"\/move\/downsizing-for-retirement\/\">What to Know When Downsizing Home for Retirement<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"_Take_care_of_all_the_required_paperwork\">6. Take care of all the required paperwork<\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-image-22247\">\n<figure class=\"alignright\"><img src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" data-aspectratio=\"450\/300\" width=\"450\" height=\"300\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.mymovingreviews.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/lifetime-of-belongings.jpg\" alt=\"Be patient and considerate when helping seniors move.\" class=\"wp-image-22247 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/lifetime-of-belongings.jpg 450w, https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/lifetime-of-belongings-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/lifetime-of-belongings-400x267.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Sorting out a lifetime of belongings is no simple task.<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Your aging parents will find it very difficult to deal with all the necessary paperwork, so you\u2019re strongly advised to take it upon yourself to put the required documents in order:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>change of address, <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>assisted living resident agreement (if applicable), <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>transfer of utilities (if applicable), <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>medical records, <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>financial records, <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>property-related documents, <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>moving documents, etc.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"_Hire_professional_senior_relocation_services\">7. Hire professional senior relocation services<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Unless your parents are taking only a few boxes of personal belongings to their new residence (and no furniture or other larger household items), you\u2019re strongly recommended to hire professional movers to perform the actual relocation \u2013 you\u2019ll have too much on your hands as it is without having to worry about transportation and other related issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Many <a href=\"\/moving-companies.php\">reputable moving companies<\/a> offer specialized moving services for seniors, so finding experienced and trustworthy movers for the elderly won\u2019t be a problem. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Just make sure you research all your options and find the best movers for your parents\u2019 particular relocation needs:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list ul_ol_padding\">\n<li><strong>Read moving reviews <\/strong>to get reliable feedback from previous customers of the senior moving companies;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"\/moving-cost-estimator.php\"><strong>Fill in<\/strong> <strong>a moving quote<\/strong><\/a> to get in touch with several reliable moving professionals in your area;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Look for testimonials and recommendations<\/strong> \u2013 if possible, get in contact with seniors (and their families) who have recently moved and find out if they were happy with the moving services they used and what problems they had with the movers;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Research <\/strong>the companies \u2013 visit their websites, <a href=\"\/move\/check-a-usdot-number\/\">check their USDOT numbers<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bbb.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">find their ratings with the BBB<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fmcsa.dot.gov\/consumer-protection\/report-safety-violations\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">check their complaints histories<\/a>, etc.;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ask for in-house estimates <\/strong>\u2013 <a href=\"\/move\/compare-moving-companies\/\">compare the offers<\/a> (not only the moving costs, but also the included services, special conditions, insurance policies, and any other important details) and choose the movers that offer the highest quality services at the most reasonable prices.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Sticking to the above checklist for moving elderly parents will ensure a trouble-free move and a smooth transition for your senior loved ones. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If it seems too overwhelming, however, you can make things much easier by hiring a senior relocation specialist to help organize the move. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Bringing in a third party who is trained to provide gentle, objective guidance eliminates much of the emotional strain and simplifies the process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Alternative_Option:_Consider_Hiring_a_Senior_Move_Manager\">Alternative Option: Consider Hiring a Senior Move Manager<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Senior move managers specialize in helping the elderly and their families deal with the painstaking process of downsizing and moving. They provide quality relocation services for seniors and offer all kinds of expert moving assistance for elderly citizens:<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image wp-image-22250\">\n<figure class=\"alignright\"><img src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" data-aspectratio=\"450\/300\" width=\"450\" height=\"300\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.mymovingreviews.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/senior-relocation-specialist.jpg\" alt=\"Senior move managers will help you organize a smooth and trouble-free relocation.\" class=\"wp-image-22250 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/senior-relocation-specialist.jpg 450w, https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/senior-relocation-specialist-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/senior-relocation-specialist-400x267.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Professional help will eliminate much of the emotional strain when moving the elderly from their home.<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list ul_ol_padding\">\n<li>Sorting and organizing household items and personal possessions;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Creating customized floor plans of the new residence so the seniors can visualize their new home;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Arranging sales and donations to get rid of unwanted items before the move;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Scheduling the move;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Arranging shipment and storage (if necessary);<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Arranging and supervising professional packing;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Unpacking and setting up the new home;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cleaning and preparing the old residence for sale or for rent.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>You can choose and combine any of these services, as appropriate in your case.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Good to know:<\/strong> The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nasmm.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">National Association of Senior Move Managers<\/a> (NASMM) is the most esteemed organization for senior move managers and, as such, it guarantees the professionalism and expertise of its certified members. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Working with NASMM&#8217;s experienced senior relocation specialists is your best bet when helping elderly parents move.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Using professional moving assistance for seniors will save you a lot of time, effort, and nerves, so that you\u2019ll be able to provide greater emotional support to your parents and will have the energy to help them settle into their new home after the move.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For one reason or another, however, you may prefer to take care of certain moving tasks \u2013 especially ones that are so emotionally intense that any outside interference may be seen as hostile, or ones that will cost too much to be performed by professionals \u2013 yourself. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If so, it will most probably be the packing of your parents\u2019 belongings that you won\u2019t entrust to strangers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Stage_:_Packing_For_The_Move\">Stage 3: Packing For The Move<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image wp-image-22252\">\n<figure class=\"alignright\"><img src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" data-aspectratio=\"450\/299\" width=\"450\" height=\"299\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.mymovingreviews.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/memories.jpg\" alt=\"Old possessions are invested with deep emotions.\" class=\"wp-image-22252 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/memories.jpg 450w, https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/memories-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/memories-400x266.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">You can&#8217;t understand why your elderly parents want to take all that gear along when they&#8217;re in no shape to go canoeing ever again? Little do you know about their boating adventures during their honeymoon&#8230;<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>When packing for moving, the elderly are not packing mere items, but memories, keepsakes, comfort providers, and other essential elements of their cozy surroundings and nostalgic lifestyle. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, when helping seniors move, you need to allow for plenty of time and be very patient and kind during the packing process. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Remember &#8211; it\u2019s not about getting stuff in the boxes as quickly as you can, it\u2019s about reaffirming your parents\u2019 sense of legacy and accomplishment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To make the process as efficient and stress-free as possible, you\u2019re advised to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list ul_ol_padding\">\n<li><strong>Be patient and considerate<\/strong> \u2013 ask your parents what they\u2019d like to do themselves and what they\u2019re going to need help with. Help them sort their belongings and try to make them understand why it\u2019ll be better to get rid of certain items, but let them have the final say. Allow them as much time as they need to make their decisions and say their goodbyes;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Start early<\/strong> \u2013 about three or four months before moving day; <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Start simple<\/strong> \u2013 have your parents pack the study or the guest room first (a place in the house that doesn\u2019t hold too much emotional attachment);<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Focus on one area at a time<\/strong> \u2013 this makes the overwhelming packing process easier and more organized;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Keep a slow but steady pace<\/strong> \u2013 ask your parents to spend at least an hour a day on the task;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Pack a <a href=\"\/move\/open-first-box\/\">survival box<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 pack the most essential items your parents are going to need during the first couple of days in their new home in a separate box, so that they have easy access to their necessities \u2013 medicines, toiletries, change of clothes, basic kitchen utensils, etc.;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ensure the safety of your parents\u2019 belongings<\/strong> \u2013 pack each and every object with utmost care and pay special attention to <a href=\"\/move\/pack-fragile-items-for-moving\/\">breakables and delicate items<\/a>;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Clearly label all boxes and household items<\/strong> \u2013 make sure all the furniture and other belongings that will go with to your parents\u2019 new home are labeled with their specific new location (living room, bedroom) and mapped out on the floor plan of the new house or apartment so that the movers know exactly where to take each item. Don\u2019t forget to label the boxes with their contents (so that your parents know where to find what after the move) and to include any special handling instructions you deem necessary;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Minimize change<\/strong> \u2013 take pictures of your parents\u2019 old home before packing it for the move, so that you can help make their new place feel cozier and more familiar by arranging the furnishings and decorations in the same way as they were before the move.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>When all the moving preparations are complete, you have one final challenge to face \u2013 The Big Day itself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Stage_:_Moving_Day\">Stage 4: Moving Day<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Emotions are certain to be running high on Moving day &#8211; the culmination of months of planning and packing, grieving, and struggling to accept the change. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You need to be extra careful to be able to keep everything running smoothly and prevent incidents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Rule 1<\/strong>. <strong>Be <\/strong>present on Moving day to supervise the moving activities and the emotional state of your loved ones.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Rule 2<\/strong>. <strong>Take <\/strong>all the necessary precautionary measures to <a href=\"\/move\/avoid-injuries-when-moving\/\">avoid accidents and injuries<\/a> during the hectic moving activities.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Rule 3<\/strong>. <strong>Set aside <\/strong>the items that should not be loaded on the moving truck and make sure your parents have their valuables, important documents, and first-night box with them.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Rule 4<\/strong>. <strong>Double-check <\/strong>everything \u2013 walk through the house one last time to make sure nothing has been left behind.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Rule 5<\/strong>. <strong>Ensure <\/strong>a safe and comfortable trip for your senior loved ones \u2013 take them to their new home in your own car (if they\u2019re moving short distance) or arrange for them to fly to their final destination (if they\u2019re moving across the country).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Once the move is over, help your parents settle in and <a href=\"\/move\/how-to-make-your-new-house-feel-like-home\/\">make their new place feel like home<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image wp-image-22255\">\n<figure class=\"alignright\"><img src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" data-aspectratio=\"450\/308\" width=\"450\" height=\"308\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.mymovingreviews.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/elderly-parents.jpg\" alt=\"The successful end of a senior relocation adventure is worth all the efforts.\" class=\"wp-image-22255 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/elderly-parents.jpg 450w, https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/elderly-parents-300x205.jpg 300w, https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/elderly-parents-400x274.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">All&#8217;s well that ends well.<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Make sure<\/strong> their belongings are in the right places and they\u2019re able to navigate freely through their new living quarters. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Take them out<\/strong> for a walk to explore the neighborhood together. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Show <\/strong>them <a href=\"\/move\/places-to-locate-in-new-city\/\">important places<\/a> like post offices and medical centers, but do not forget pleasant parks, farm markets, and senior clubs where they can relax, have some fun, and meet new people. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Introduce <\/strong>them to the neighbors and consider throwing a housewarming party &#8211; new friendly relationships will do your elderly loved ones a lot of good.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If your parents have moved to a retirement community (or an assisted living facility), make sure they know how to reach the community\u2019s staff when they need assistance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whatever the situation, do not forget that it is your love and respect for your elderly parents that will help them overcome any difficulties and adjust to their new life. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em><strong>Make sure you\u2019re there for them whenever they need you.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"\/move\/how-much-does-it-cost-to-hire-movers\/\">How Much Does It Cost to Hire Movers?<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>A home is not just a roof over the head \u2013 it is a place that offers comfort and peace, a sanctuary where you can be yourself and find refuge from the hostile outside world, a safe haven that reflects your personality, stores your memories, and gives rise to your dreams. And the longer you &hellip; <\/p>\n<p class=\"link-more\"><a href=\"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/senior-moving-assistance\/\" class=\"more-link\">Continue reading<span class=\"screen-reader-text\"> &#8220;Checklist for Moving Elderly Parents: Senior Moving Assistance&#8221;<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":17,"featured_media":42047,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"ub_ctt_via":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[1,3],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-22230","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-guides","category-moving-checklist","entry"],"acf":[],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/moving-elderly-parents-1.jpg","author_info":{"display_name":"Jessica Ryan","author_link":"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/author\/jessica-ryan\/"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v24.8.1 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Checklist for Moving Elderly Parents: Senior Moving Assistance<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Helping seniors move requires plenty of time, compassion, and hard work. 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Use this checklist for moving elderly parents to learn how to ensure the best senior moving assistance for your elderly parents.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/senior-moving-assistance\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"Checklist for Moving Elderly Parents: Senior Moving Assistance","og_description":"Helping seniors move requires plenty of time, compassion, and hard work. 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You can contact Jessica at: jessicaryan@mymovingreviews.com | Linkedin","sameAs":["https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/jessica--ryan\/"],"url":"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/author\/jessica-ryan\/"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/22230"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/17"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=22230"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/22230\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":46064,"href":"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/22230\/revisions\/46064"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/42047"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=22230"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=22230"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=22230"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}