Make Moving Easier for Older Adults

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.

 When it comes time for you to help someone–such as a parent or grandparent–move, you need to be aware that he or she will need special attention to make the transition. Many older adults don’t have the mobility that younger people do, nor are they always as tolerant of change. Some may also have health conditions that need careful monitoring.

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.

 What can also be beneficial is to make the new environment look as much as possible like the old one. Surroundings that appear familiar can alleviate some of an older adults anxieties about moving to a different location. Digital photos that show how the old home was decorated can give you a visual reference that allows you to arrange any furniture, books and pictures in ways that will put them more at ease.

 If your older adult plans to be around on moving day, make sure to eliminate as many potential hazards as possible. This means:

• 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!

www.americanclassicstorage.com