Helping seniors move can by emotionally and physically trying. The first thing to consider is whether they want to move, or are being forced to move because of medical or financial reasons, or following the death of a spouse. Seniors that are moving into retirement or assisted living communities may feel resentful or depressed, so be patient.
The first thing I cannot stress enough, is that you maintain patience with whomever you are trying to move. Whether moving voluntarily or involuntarily, most times these homes hold a lot of dear memories for it’s residents. Many seniors are creatures of habit. Bear in mind, that as people grow older, they tend to clean less and collect more. Sorting through boxes and rooms of what seems like endless junk has memories for these people, so be considerate when helping to pack. Each item may have a story attached, so be patient if they want to retell them.
Whittling down their treasures can be difficult, so have them make lists for things they need, things they would like to stay in the family and things that can be given to church or a donation center. Clean as you go and don’t criticize their cleaning habits or the poor condition of their house or apartment. Upkeep can be difficult in old age and seniors may feel self conscious about the condition of their home. Suggest taking a picture in front of their home where all their memories were built.
Leading up to the move, start small. Gradually start talking about the big move more and more each day and let them discuss any worry or misgivings they have. Packing the whole house can seem daunting so do little tasks. Sorting through a sewing basket, or a bathroom cabinet may be all they have the energy for. Starting in a room that doesn’t have strong sentimental attachment is best. Let them warm up to the idea of packing their treasures. Starting in the basement or attic is a big no-no. These rooms are full of pictures, art projects children did in school and wedding presents. Leave the tough rooms for towards the end.
When you move into a new place, make sure that the senior that is moving into it had input. Giving them an opinion, even when the choice to move was not theirs at least helps them feel like they still have some control over their lives. Tour the facility and see if they offer any activities. Take them on a walk or a car ride around the neighborhood. Is there a park they would like. Let them look at restaurants, shops, and coffee houses. Before they move, make sure they know where grocery stores are, pharmacies, and where they are in relation to you, doctors offices, and hospitals.
Plan the move in advance. If you can overlap a month between their new place, and the old one, you will save yourself a lot of grief, and them a lot of heartache. Gradually moving their things to a new home is less stressful and allows them to start unpacking in their new place. Moving into a home that already has some of their stuff is better than moving into to a sterile environment. Plan to bring a few boxes over every couple of days and grab lunch with them. Making the move seem like a social occasion helps ease them into the transition.
When you move them into their new place hang pictures that were in their old house and set up the room in a similar fashion so they feel comfortable. Let them offer assistance as to how to organize things. Remember, this is their home. Avoid putting rugs down that can be tripping hazards or items that sit in the middle of the room. Keep furniture close to the walls and organize the kitchen as it had been done at their old place.
Make sure whomever you are moving is familiar with their new apartment of home. Show them where the circuit breaker, air vents, thermostat, first aide kit, fire extinguisher and nearest exits are located. Write down important numbers. Show them where their medicine is stored and work out an easy labeling system if they have poor eye sight. If moving into a new home, take a moment to introduce yourself and your parents, or the seniors you have assisted, to their new neighbors. If in an assisted living home, make sure they know the workers at the facility.
Most senior assisted living homes and retirement communities offer a wide range of activities. My grandma and grandpa just moved into one recently and would meet other couples every morning in the lobby for free coffee. Tuesday nights were bingo nights, and soon, any guests were ushered to the door because they couldn’t miss bingo. Helping get your parents or grandparents involved in new activities will help them feel like this is home.
