Moving, at any age, is a big job. Packing is strenuous work. And then there is the added stress of having to ensure that everything is properly secured so that nothing will break en-route. Keep in mind as well; moving does not start when the moving van pulls up. It is a process and thought needs to go into it well ahead of time. As a senior, this is doubly important as physical activity is not as easy as it used to be, so a plan will ease much of the work. As the top moving company for local and long distance moving, Isaac’s Moving and Storage is well experienced when it comes to giving seniors moving advice and to rendering packing services. Isaac’s received the coveted Circle of Service Award from NASMM (National Association of Senior Move Managers) for it’s outstanding service to the senior living communities.
To put this knowledge to good use; we have created this list of the top moving tips to aid seniors in their moving process.
Moving Tips for Seniors
Make a Plan
An organized approach is key to a stress-free move. Consider:
- What needs to be done – Break down tasks into manageable steps, such as decluttering, packing, and setting up utilities in your new home.
- When to do it – Set a moving date and work backward to establish a timeline for packing, organizing, and preparing.
By starting early, you can pace yourself and avoid the exhaustion of last-minute packing. If lifting and packing seem overwhelming, consider moving services that offer professional assistance with packing, loading, and transportation.
Plan Your New Space
Downsizing is one of the biggest adjustments for seniors moving into a smaller home or senior community. Before packing, measure your new space to determine what will realistically fit. For example, if you’re moving from a 2,000-square-foot home into a 1,000-square-foot apartment, you’ll need to reduce your belongings by 50%.
- Identify essential furniture and personal items to bring.
- Consider putting non-essential items in storage if you’re not ready to part with them.
- Use this opportunity to simplify your life and create a home environment that’s clutter-free and comfortable.
List What Is Important
Make a list of the possessions that you cannot afford to lose. You know, the “I-will-run-into-a-fire-to-save-them” items. Not everything can come with you, so prioritize your most valuable possessions. Create a list of must-keep items, such as sentimental keepsakes, important documents, and frequently used household essentials.
Moving costs increase with the volume of belongings, so this is a great time to streamline. If certain items don’t fit in your new space but hold sentimental value, consider gifting them to family members who will appreciate and cherish them.
Share
If you are downsizing, instead of selling or putting your possessions into storage, think about passing down cherished items to family and friends. Whether it’s a dining set that holds years of family memories or a collection of books you’ve treasured, sharing these possessions can be meaningful for both you and your loved ones.
Alternatively, consider donating unneeded items to a local charity. Many organizations will even pick up furniture and household goods, making downsizing easier and helping those in need.
Pack a Suitcase for the First Few Days
Moving day can be hectic, and it may take a few days to fully unpack. Prepare by packing an essentials bag, as if you were going on a short trip. Include:
- Medications
- Toiletries
- Comfortable clothing
- Important documents
- Phone charger
Having these essentials readily available will make settling into your new home much easier.
Stay in Touch
Amidst the chaos of moving, it’s important to keep loved ones updated. Notify family, friends, and important contacts about your change of address.
Isaac’s Moving and Storage: Your Trusted Partner for Senior Moves
Our experienced team specializes in senior relocations, offering services tailored to your needs, whether it’s full-service packing, secure storage, or simply a helping hand on moving day.
We proudly serve communities across the country. Whether you’re moving locally or long-distance, our team is here to help. Check out the locations we serve to find professional moving support near you.
We take pride in our reputation for exceptional service, and our customers agree—see what they have to say in our client testimonials. If you or a loved one is planning a move, contact us today to learn how we can help. Let us handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on settling into your new home with peace of mind.
For over 25 years, Isaac’s Moving and Storage has helped to relocate families to their new home. With a customer satisfaction rate in excess of 96%, we have become the leaders in our field. For more information, contact us today.
