We know planning and executing a move can be a challenging and overwhelming process at any age. But it can also be an exciting time. And for seniors, there are some unique considerations involved, like the possibility of transitioning to a retirement or assisted living community, or moving to a smaller home or apartment that may require a significant amount of downsizing. No matter where you’re headed, our moving guide is designed with seniors in mind — to ensure a smooth and positive transition. In our guide, you’ll get moving advice for seniors, tips for identifying when the time is right to move, how to prepare for a move and advice for getting settled into your new home.
There are a variety of reasons you may be considering a move, including a desire to downsize living space, move closer to friends or family, or gain access to additional support from caregivers. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common housing options for seniors.
Many older adults may decide to move to a new home or apartment if they want to live closer to family members or if they want to transition to a smaller living space that’s more manageable. New homes or apartments may also provide additional accessibility features, such as single-floor living and walk-in showers, or conveniences like lawn care and landscaping services.
Retirement communities are another popular option for older adults. These communities allow seniors to socialize with their peers, participate in community activities and excursions, and gain access to a social support network outside of their immediate family.
Assisted living communities are designed to help older adults who may need assistance in their day-to-day life, but don’t require the level of medical care a nursing home would provide. Assisted living communities can help with hygiene, dressing, housekeeping, and other tasks and typically provide meals, group activities, and the opportunity for residents to socialize.
While there are a variety of benefits that come with moving as a senior, we also understand it can be a stressful topic for individuals and families. Transitioning to a new home may mean saying goodbye to a home that’s comfortable and familiar, and it may be difficult to take the plunge and to figure out the best time to make a move. Our advice is to acknowledge these feelings but to also focus on the positive aspects of moving. It’s also important to seriously evaluate and consider your current and future needs. Some reasons why considering a move might be the right choice include:
Moving can be challenging for seniors and their families both emotionally and logistically, even if the move is ultimately the right decision. In order to make helping seniors move as easy as possible, here are our top tips to help make sure you’re prepared:
It’s important to remember that it can take a while to adjust to your new environment after any move. After a move is complete, everything will be new: new place, new people and new routines. Here are our recommendations for making your move as smooth as possible:
The right moves for seniors are often made with ample research and planning. We recommend evaluating your situation carefully, assessing the amenities and support you may require and researching options near you. Once you’ve determined a move is the best choice, use the tips in this guide to make your move as easy and positive as possible.