Many families stay in the same homes for generations, but in today’s day and age, many families are often not staying in the same places. Many older adults are now selling the family home and downsizing to smaller condos, apartments, and assisted living facilities. As difficult as this decision is to make (whether it was the decision of the senior or the children who become power of attorney) sometimes the decision becomes necessary as health declines or injuries happen.

Leaving the family home can be a difficult move for older adults. By exercising kindness and understanding, you can help your loved one transition to their new place.

1. Be Patient

Leaving the home where someone has raised their children and possibly spent decades living can be emotionally painful, even if they say they are ready to downsize to a smaller, more manageable place. Your loved ones are about to go through a huge change, and may experience a wide range of emotions from sadness and loss to even a bit of relief.

Go slowly. Let your loved ones prepare for the change. Not only are they possibly moving a bit slowly due to their physical condition, but they are also having to process a huge change in their lives. Don’t make your loved ones feel rushed-let them say goodbye at a pace that feels comfortable for them.

2. Start Small

Especially if your loved one has reservations about the move, starting slowly can start the adjustment process. While you tackle projects like hiring a local moving company, changing addresses, and collecting boxes, giving the person moving a small project, like a bedside table or a dresser drawer can be a good start.

3. Sort With Sensitivity

Sorting through a lifetime of memories can be overwhelming, especially if your loved one is downsizing to a place much, much smaller than they are used to. As you help sort through possessions, don’t force the purging of the items. If your loved one has a sentimental attachment to items that he or she cannot take to their new place, arrange for the items to be given to someone that your loved one designates, whether it be a charity they support or another member of the family.

4. Hire Outside Help

It may be easier for your loved one to deal with a professional local moving company rather than dealing with their children or other relatives. Realizing that they cannot handle living in their family home any longer may make them feel a bit helpless, and having their relatives involved can lead to resentment, so hiring a professional moving company can help your loved one feel like they are maintaining control of their life and their affairs, and keep the family feuding to a minimum.

5. Making it Feel Like Home

If your loved one has typically had houseplants in the windows, fruit on the kitchen table, or their rooms set up a certain way, do what you can to set up their new place as similarly to their lifelong home as you can. By maintaining a sense of home, you can make the transition to their new place easier.

When you need professional movers to help move sentimental mementos, family heirlooms, and a lifetime of possessions, hire a trustworthy moving company. Call us to schedule your move today.