Helping Parents Move

by Rose Broyles

When and if that time comes to move your parents, what do you do? Where do you go? First you should download our free guide to Searching for Senior Housing. Based on my research and our experience I created a comprehensive guide that will help you find and secure the right home for your parents. After you have done that, my next suggestion is to go to the National Association of Senior Movers and find a local mover to help you and your parents or loved ones. You can also find their link on our General Resources section. 

Why use a senior mover?

Unlike a regular mover where you basically pack up your things and then wait for them to pick it up, a senior mover accounts for every detail including, emotional ones. Some companies will design the new place like the old one, so Mom and Dad feel like they are “at home”. I think that is a great idea. What is traumatizing for many seniors who have to make such a big change is being in an entirely different place. If you can give them something recognizable, something familiar,   I think that helps tremendously.

Other services that senior movers might include are assisting the senior sell their  belongings if they decide not to keep them or give them to family. 

Downside

Of course this sounds great, and everyone should be doing it right? Well, as with many things in this wonderful world of ours, things cost money. These movers can cost around $50-60/hr. If your parent has many belongings or a big house, this might not be economically feasible, especially if they are moving into another costly move —the assisted living or nursing facility. In this case, I suggest advertising at a rate that you/they can afford at craigslist under the gigs>labor section. There are tons of students or other people who would be willing to help out for alot less. However, YOU would be in charge of planning and details. Better yet, if you have a large family, enlist the help of all the grandkids and/or great-grandkids , nieces and nephews. You can make it a family affair by having a moving party for Grandma and Grandpa. 

Moving is tough, especially on a senior. No matter which route you decide to take, always….always keep their feelings in mind and be sensitive to their needs. After all, it is their stuff, their belongings you are dealing with.  Good luck and happy moving!

Sources: National Association of Senior Movers

Related articles by Zemanta

• OurParents.com – Helping Families With Aging Parents (killerstartups.com)