Moving can be a daunting task for individuals of any age, but it can be particularly challenging for seniors who may have accumulated a lifetime’s worth of belongings and attachments to their current home.
However, with proper planning, organization and support, the process of senior moving can be much smoother and less stressful. Dayna Wilson, a Certified Senior Housing Professional, and top-performing Keller Williams Realtor, offers the following comprehensive guide to assist seniors and their family members as they begin to navigate the transition to a new home. Of course, each of her clients are unique and have a special set of circumstances she must consider. Ultimately, her goal is to create a smooth path to follow, for both her senior home sellers and their families, paved with ease and confidence.
Wilson’s clients are impressed with her professionalism and the attention to detail she gives every project.
“She pays attention to our needs and really cares about giving the best service,” says Leslie, who has worked with Wilson for several years, both buying and selling properties. She adds, “(Dayna) is very reliable, always on time and ready to go. I hope to continue doing business with her.”
Start early and create a moving plan
The first step is to connect with your preferred Seniors Real Estate Professional specializing in mature moves. Wilson provides guidance and advice, referrals, and recommendations about all aspects of the rightsizing move. Connecting early can also save valuable time, energy and money allowing the real focus to be where it should, the emotional and physical well-being of the client. Once they’ve chosen their next home, Wilson suggests seniors begin preparing for their move as early as possible to allow ample time for sorting and organizing all their belongings. Developing a moving plan will help outline the essential tasks and deadlines. Keeping everyone involved in the move organized ensures nothing will be overlooked.
Evaluate housing options
Explore your housing needs and options, says Wilson. Will you age in place in your current home or a more manageable place requiring minor renovations to accommodate mobility challenges? Is a senior living community better suited for your current and long-term care needs?
“Consider factors such as accessibility, proximity to family, friends, doctors and medical facilities, social amenities and support services,” she says when deciding where you will live next. She also recommends engaging with real estate agents specializing in senior housing or retirement communities. Their wealth of knowledge and resources can be beneficial.
Declutter and downsize
Moving presents an opportunity for seniors to peruse their accumulations of belongings and declutter and downsize their possessions. Family members can help, says Wilson. The following three tasks are frequently cited as the most challenging aspects when dealing with one’s stuff: sorting, organizing and choosing items to be moved, deciding what to do with things left behind and managing the liquidation process. Many families attempt to handle the entire estate liquidation without proper support costing them time, frustration and expense. “I see folks focusing on trying to sell items one by one online which really gets them nowhere but exhausted,” she says. “Focus on what you’re keeping that is truly necessary, holds sentimental value, which will fit and efficiently liquidate the rest.”
Items no longer needed can be donated, consigned, auctioned, sold or gifted to family members. Downsizing your belongings simplifies the moving process and makes the new living space more manageable.
Seek professional help
Alleviate the physical strain and reduce the emotional toll of a move by hiring professional movers experienced in moving seniors. Wilson often refers her clients to these specialists who provide services such as packing, unpacking, furniture assembly and transportation. As always, she cautions that it is crucial to research and select reputable movers who have positive reviews and are trained to handle senior moves. This is not the time when you want the lowest bid; rather make your selections based on service, delivery, reputation, references and whether they can meet your needs.
Take inventory and label boxes
You’ve hired professionals to move you, but labeling the moving boxes with clear and concise descriptions of their contents will help seniors locate their belongings quickly and efficiently when arriving at their new homes. Wilson suggests creating an inventory list to keep track of items during the move. Preventing lost or misplaced items is a must. Keep your medications and important papers with you instead of packing them.
Arrange for utilities and services
Contact utility companies well in advance to schedule the disconnection of services at the former home and to schedule the connection of services at the new residence. Cable, electricity, water, gas and internet should all be running by the time the movers show up and the unpacking begins. Updating addresses with banks, insurance providers, medical professionals, subscriptions and other relevant parties is essential to ensure a smooth transition. Dayna has a helpful list she provides her sellers to remind them as there will be a lot going on all at once when moving day approaches.
Make arrangements for furry friends
Make sure to have a proper crate to move your pets on moving day or arrange to have them in a kennel on moving day or with a trusted pet sitter so they stay clear of the moving activity. Labeling containers of your pet’s food, medications and supplies helps too.
Modify the new home for accessibility
Inspect the new home and make the necessary modifications to accommodate any physical limitations before you move in. According to Wilson, grab bars, ramps and stairlifts are just a few items to consider installing to ensure a safe and accessible environment. Safety and comfort significantly enhance seniors’ independence in their new living space.
Seek emotional support
Moving for everyone at any age can be emotionally challenging, but it is especially so for seniors who may be leaving behind a home filled with memories. Encourage seniors to lean on family, friends or support groups during this crucial transitional period, says Wilson. Allowing seniors to discuss their feelings and reminisce can also help ease the emotional burden associated with this significant lifestyle change.
Celebrate the new chapter
Host a housewarming gathering with family and friends, invite new neighbors, and celebrate the beginning of a new chapter. One door closes, but another door of opportunities and new adventures opens.
Making a move later in life doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Starting early, planning, enlisting the right professional assistance and addressing the emotions accompanying this significant move can help seniors successfully navigate the process of relocating to a new home.
“Care, organization and support ensures a move can be a positive and exciting step toward a fulfilling and comfortable future,” says Wilson.
Dayna Wilson DRE # 01781285, Keller Williams East Bay Realty. (925) 788-6582. Visit [email protected]/events for the complete list of upcoming free senior-focused discussions, including “Touring a Retirement Community,” scheduled for Wednesday, Aug. 16, and “Emergency Preparedness,” scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 6. Register by calling (925) 330-4388.