Moving Elderly Parents to Another State

Author

Griswold Home Care

For more information about the author, click to view their website: Griswold Home Care

Posted on

Sep 03, 2023

Book/Edition

Florida - Southwest

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As older adults require more health needs, they may want to consider moving closer to loved ones. But how do you move an elderly person to another state? In this post, we will review what you need to know about moving elderly parents to another state.

Reasons for Moving an Elderly Parent from One State to Another

There are several reasons why your parent may want to consider moving. Firstly, they may require extra support for tasks like chores and hygiene. Secondly, if they live far away from you, moving closer could bring peace of mind in case of a family emergency. Thirdly, moving to a more senior-friendly community or senior care facility could provide more opportunities for socializing. Lastly, if they are living in a large house with no children, it may be challenging to keep up with home repairs and other tasks, in which case downsizing to a smaller living space may be worth discussing.

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How to Get Elderly Parents to Move

Relocating to a new state can be a daunting task for older people, and they may be resistant to taking on a new chapter. Leaving behind memories and set routines may seem overwhelming but sometimes, it can help moving elderly parents closer to you. Here are a few tips for convincing aging parents to move closer.

  • Begin the conversation early. The process may take time, and you definitely don’t want to pressure your loved one into making a decision shortly after a crisis occurs and they’re forced to move quickly. It’s best to start talking about the prospect earlier so they can move on their own time.

  • Conduct a cost-benefit analysis. This can include listing out financial costs and the benefits of moving. The latter can include practical things, like improved safety, or emotional things, such as being closer to their grandkids.

  • Listen to them. This is a big step for your loved one. Rather than glossing over their concerns, try to validate them while painting a picture of why moving is a good idea.

Next up, we will review how to move elderly parents across country or to just a state near them.

How to Move an Elderly Parent to Another State

Helping elderly parents move requires some thought beforehand. Consider the below steps before officially relocating.

  1. Take small steps. Start with cleaning out small rooms before moving on to bigger rooms. You should also consider separating items into piles you want to keep and piles you want to give away.

  2. Look into senior moving services. These services can help seniors lift heavy objects as well as other tasks. This can include cleaning, health care, and other types of emotional support that can be required after a move.

  3. Plan transportation around your loved one's needs. For example, if flying is the best option, you may want to book a nonstop flight if your loved one has mobility issues. There are also transportation companies that focus specifically on senior needs by providing materials such as oxygen tanks and wheelchairs.

  4. Handle health care needs ahead of time. This includes transferring prescriptions and contacting insurance providers.

  5. Think of ways to make the new environment feel like home. Do they love art? Decorate the walls with paintings from a local gallery. Any small step can make your loved one feel like they are at home. Furthermore, explore opportunities with the new space. Is the living room a little larger? Maybe this is the time to get that big-screen TV they always wanted.

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Moving Made Easy: Simple Tips for Seniors

Moving to a new home can be scary and stressful, especially for older people. But don't worry! Here are some easy ways to make moving day less scary and more fun.1. Pick the Right HomeFirst, choose a new home that feels good. Think about what you like. Do you want a garden view? Do you need help with cooking? Make sure your new home has what you need to be happy.2. Make ListsWrite down everything you need to do. This helps you remember important things. Start early and take your time. Don't rush!3. Choose Special ThingsWhen you move to a smaller home, you can't take everything. Pick the things that mean the most to you. It's okay to feel sad about leaving some things behind.4. Get Help from MoversHiring people to help you move can make things much easier. They know how to pack and move your stuff safely.5. Use Good BoxesUse boxes that stack well. Plastic boxes with lids are great because they're easy to pack and unpack.6. Say Goodbye to Your Old HomeHave a party to say goodbye to your old home. Take lots of pictures to remember it. This can help you feel better about moving.7. Think Happy ThoughtsMoving can be exciting! Think about all the fun new things you'll do in your new home. You might make new friends or try new activities.8. Pack a Special BagPack a bag with things you'll need right away in your new home. Put in things like:MedicineToothbrush and toothpastePajamasSnacks and waterThis way, you won't have to search through all your boxes on the first night.9. Make a Moving Day PlanPlan out your moving day. Know when you'll leave and when you should arrive at your new home. Don't forget to plan for breaks along the way.Remember, moving can be a big change, but it can also be the start of a great new adventure in your life!

Moving to Senior Living: What to Pack and What to Leave Behind

When moving to a senior living community, it's important to know what to bring and what to leave behind. This guide will help you pack smart for your new home.Before You Start PackingVisit Your New Home: Take a look at how big your new space is.Talk to Residents: Ask people who already live there about what they brought and what they wish they had.Check with Staff: Find out what furniture and items the community provides and which items are not allowed.Involve Family: Let your family pick items they might want to keep, especially heirlooms.What to BringClothes and Personal ItemsEveryday clothesToiletries like toothbrush and shampooMedicationsMobility aids, like walkers or canesSpecial ItemsPhotos and artwork that you loveSmall mementos that make you feel at homeFurniture (if there's room)A comfortable chairA small table or nightstandA bed (if not provided)Lamps for lightingOther Important ThingsBedding and blanketsKitchen items if you have a small kitchen areaTV or radio (if allowed)Pet supplies if pets are permittedWhat Not to BringExpensive jewelry or valuable items that could be lost or damagedClothes you no longer wearLarge furniture pieces that won't fitBig appliances that the community providesHeaters or air conditioners that may not be allowedLarge rugs that could be a tripping hazardRemember, your new home will be smaller, so you'll need to choose carefully what to bring. It's perfectly okay to ask for help from family or friends if packing feels overwhelming.

A Senior's Guide To A Stress-Free Relocation

Moving can be a big challenge, especially for seniors. But don't worry! With some planning and help, you can make your move smooth and easy. Let's look at some simple ways to make your summer move a success.Plan AheadStart by making a list of everything you need to do. Write down important dates and tasks. This will help you stay organized and not forget anything. Ask family or friends to help you make this list if you need to.Sort Through Your StuffBefore you start packing, go through your things. Decide what you want to keep, give away, or throw out. This is a great chance to make your new home less cluttered. Think about what will fit in your new place and what's really important to you.Stay Cool and SafeMoving in hot weather can be tough. Here are some tips to stay safe:Start early in the morning when it's coolerDrink lots of waterTake breaks in the shadeWear light, comfy clothes and a hatUse sunscreenAsk for help with heavy liftingPack SmartWhen you're ready to pack, follow these tips:Use strong boxesLabel each box clearlyPack a special box with things you'll need right away in your new homeIf packing is hard for you, ask for help or hire someone to do itTake Care of Special ItemsSome things need extra care when moving, depending on the weather.   Electronics, art, and musical instruments might need to be moved in a cool truck. If you have things like this, ask for advice on how to move them safely.Get HelpMoving can be a lot of work. It's okay to ask for help. Family, friends, or professional movers can make your move much easier. They can help with packing, lifting heavy things, and setting up your new home.Stay PositiveRemember, moving to a new home can be exciting! Think about the good things about your new place. Maybe you'll be closer to family or in a nicer neighborhood. Keeping a positive attitude can make the whole process feel better.Final TipsChange your address with the post officeSet up utilities in your new home before you movePack a bag with clothes and toiletries for your first few daysTake breaks and rest when you need toMoving doesn't have to be hard. With these tips and some help, you can have a great move to your new home. Remember to take your time, stay cool, and ask for help when you need it. Happy moving!