Moving out of a long-time family home is never easy for a senior, especially in the Grapevine area. There are many difficulties to anticipate during this transition period that can be emotionally taxing and require much patience. To help make the process smoother, here are five common problems to expect when moving a senior out of their Grapevine family home, along with helpful tips on how to manage them.
Dealing with Finances
Moving a senior loved one out of their family home can be difficult, especially when it comes to finances. It is important to find out if there are sufficient funds for the move and its associated costs, such as renting a moving van or hiring professional movers. Additionally, there may be costs associated with setting up the new residence, such as utilities and home maintenance fees.
It is also important to consider whether Medicare and other insurance coverages will provide assistance with moving costs. With the myriad of financial considerations surrounding a move, it is good to consult with a professional like a senior transition specialist for advice about budgeting and covering expenses.
Packing and Transportation
When packing and transporting items to a new home, it is important to be mindful and respectful of the memories within their belongings. As much as possible, try to find a way to keep sentimental items that cannot be moved; take photos or make videos so these memories can still be enjoyed.
Hiring professional movers is often a good option as they are experienced in the delicate process of relocating seniors and will help to ensure all belongings get to the new home safely and securely. Consider hiring quality storage units if there are too many belongings that cannot be moved right away—this way, seniors can go through their possessions at their own pace without feeling overwhelmed or rushed.
Finding a New Home
Finding a new home for a senior moving out of their family residence can be an overwhelming task, especially with the current state of healthcare and housing in the U.S. Fortunately, there are many options available, such as assisted living facilities or independent and group homes. It is important to research all rental options thoroughly—look into the safety and security measures that each facility has in place, what amenities they offer, and the cost associated with living there.
When looking at the physical location of a new home, it is important to consider accessibility needs: will it be easy for the senior to get around? Are public transportation and medical services nearby? An experienced senior transition specialist can help with finding an appropriate new residence for your loved one.
Dealing with Change
Moving out of a family home can be a difficult transition for many seniors. It is important to understand that change can be an inevitable part of life and try to approach it with patience and compassion. Encourage open communication—let the senior know it is okay to talk about their feelings, and make sure they feel heard.
Consider speaking with a licensed therapist or specialist if needed—sometimes having a professional third-party listener can help sort through the emotions associated with this kind of upheaval. Finally, create a sense of security by staying connected: allow the elderly loved one access to video calls/facetime so they can stay in touch, even if far away from home!
Managing Emotional Stress
Moving out of a family home can be a major cause of emotional stress for many seniors. It’s important to acknowledge the changes and allow them time to grieve—don’t rush them into their new situation. It might be helpful to write down the emotions they are feeling, or talk to someone about it, such as a close friend or mentor.
Make sure to listen without judgment and remind them that this is a common experience. If needed, seek out professional therapy as well. Finally, create a sense of security and familiarity by bringing along some of their favorite items from home when they move—pictures, books, and the like—so that even though they are in a new place, there is still something familiar with them.
Senior Transition Specialists in Grapevine, TX
If you’re a senior, or a relative of a senior in Grapevine, TX looking for help moving out of your long-time family home, contact A-List Homes and our senior transition specialists. We buy houses in Grapevine, TX, and our team of experts is dedicated to providing an efficient and stress-free experience so that you can start your next chapter with peace of mind. Let us take care of the heavy lifting and make sure everything goes according to plan, so that you can focus on all the good memories still to come in your new home!
Call us at (469) 333-7777 or visit our website and find out how we can make your next steps in life lighter and easier.