Make Moving Easier For Older Adults
CC Isole, Facility Manager
American Classic Self Storage
Many have had to face
the major decision of downsizing from a larger home to a smaller apartment, moving
into a retirement community, or perhaps an assisted living facility. It is very
difficult decision for everyone in the family. What do you do with all the
personal items from the larger home that will not fit in the new residence? Typically,
the heirlooms and special items that are important to your family member will
be kept in the family, for future generations to cherish and enjoy. Self-storage
is an option to house these items in a safe and secure way until arrangements
on their disposition is decided. It is important to remember to choose the best
self-storage facility to meet your needs. If you will be storing photos, family
heirlooms, antique furniture or sensitive electronics, you should consider a
climate-controlled storage unit. These
units have a constant temperature and humidity level year-round that will
protect items during storage.
Be sure that the person
you are assisting has visited their new residence at least once before the
actual move takes place. This will help them get acclimated to their new
environment and surroundings, and any new faces that may be associated with it.
- getting lamp and phone cords out of the way;
- rolling up carpets that could otherwise create a trip
hazard;
- breaking down boxes as soon as they are empty; and
- setting up lights immediately so that everything in the new home is well-lit.
Once everything is
unpacked, don’t forget to show them how appliances, the thermostat, alarms and
any other household items work. Be sure they know how to easily contact you or
a designated community manager in the event of an emergency. You might also
check to see if they need assistance getting cable, Internet or telephone
services put in place. If relocation is
to a retirement community or assisted living facility, be sure to arrange an
orientation meeting with the appropriate staff for the person you are
assisting, as well as yourself and/or other primary family members.
In some cases, it
might be best if the person you are helping is not around for the actual move.
If he or she is going to a retirement community, such facilities often have
guest rooms that can accommodate new arrivals for several days. If this is the
case, check to see that the senior has the medications he or she needs along
with appropriate clothing and toiletries.
What if you are faced with the relocation of an older adult
location in another state, or out of your immediate area? Today, there are movers and services that
cater to just this circumstance.
In
2002, a new organization was formed specifically to facilitate all types of
local and long distance relocation issues for older adults. The National
Association of Senior Move Management, known as NASMM, is a 501(c)(6), not-for-profit group of
professional senior care specialists who cater to the unique – and frequently
unexpected – physical and emotional needs of America's aging population and
their families who find themselves faced with any type of moving or relocation
arrangements. Initially formed by two dozen independent operators and small
businesses, today the rapidly expanding national organization boasts over 500
active, involved members. Visit www.nasmm.org to learn more about their
resources.
Here
are some questions you will want to ask when shopping for a well-qualified
senior move management professional:
- Are
you insured with full liability and workmen's compensation insurance? – If so, ask for proof. If
not, keep shopping.
- What are your professional credentials and industry affiliations? – Resources affiliated with NASMM, list their professional relationships at their websites. Verify them if you're in doubt.
- How are fees determined and when are they accessed? – The list of services provided and their related charges will vary among companies that specialize in senior move management. Request a copy of their contract and a list of potential fees so everyone involved understands the costs.
- How
long have they been in business? – Although tenure doesn't necessarily guarantee
quality, a long history with few or any BBB complaints is a good
indicator. Ask for proof of their good standing from their State of
registration.
- What
have former customers said about their service? – Due to privacy issues, many
companies today don't hand out personal references from previous
customers. User generated testimonials can frequently be found at company
websites and in their collateral material. If your suspicious, request to
have some of the company's satisfied clients contact you to verify their
claims.
Whether
you are coming from near or far, American Classic
Self Storage understands that it is a stressful time when family members are in
transition. That is why we try to make your storing experience as simple and
seamless as possible. We pride ourselves in helping our customers find the best
storage solution for their needs. American Classic Self Storage has units in a
variety of sizes to suit every need and budget. Our rental contracts are
month-to-month, so there’s no pressure for a long term commitment. Let us help
you make a senior-in-transition’s life a little easier. Contact us today!
