Moving Elderly Parents to Another State

As older adults require more health needs, they may want to consider moving closer to loved ones. But how do you move an elderly person to another state? In this post, we will review what you need to know about moving elderly parents to another state.

Reasons for Moving an Elderly Parent from One State to Another

There are several reasons why your parent may want to consider moving. Firstly, they may require extra support for tasks like chores and hygiene. Secondly, if they live far away from you, moving closer could bring peace of mind in case of a family emergency. Thirdly, moving to a more senior-friendly community or senior care facility could provide more opportunities for socializing. Lastly, if they are living in a large house with no children, it may be challenging to keep up with home repairs and other tasks, in which case downsizing to a smaller living space may be worth discussing.

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How to Get Elderly Parents to Move

Relocating to a new state can be a daunting task for older people, and they may be resistant to taking on a new chapter. Leaving behind memories and set routines may seem overwhelming but sometimes, it can help moving elderly parents closer to you. Here are a few tips for convincing aging parents to move closer.

• Begin the conversation early. The process may take time, and you definitely don’t want to pressure your loved one into making a decision shortly after a crisis occurs and they’re forced to move quickly. It’s best to start talking about the prospect earlier so they can move on their own time.

• Conduct a cost-benefit analysis. This can include listing out financial costs and the benefits of moving. The latter can include practical things, like improved safety, or emotional things, such as being closer to their grandkids.

• Listen to them. This is a big step for your loved one. Rather than glossing over their concerns, try to validate them while painting a picture of why moving is a good idea.

Next up, we will review how to move elderly parents across country or to just a state near them.

How to Move an Elderly Parent to Another State

Helping elderly parents move requires some thought beforehand. Consider the below steps before officially relocating.

1. Take small steps. Start with cleaning out small rooms before moving on to bigger rooms. You should also consider separating items into piles you want to keep and piles you want to give away.

2. Look into senior moving services. These services can help seniors lift heavy objects as well as other tasks. This can include cleaning, health care, and other types of emotional support that can be required after a move.

3. Plan transportation around your loved one’s needs. For example, if flying is the best option, you may want to book a nonstop flight if your loved one has mobility issues. There are also transportation companies that focus specifically on senior needs by providing materials such as oxygen tanks and wheelchairs.

4. Handle health care needs ahead of time. This includes transferring prescriptions and contacting insurance providers.

5. Think of ways to make the new environment feel like home. Do they love art? Decorate the walls with paintings from a local gallery. Any small step can make your loved one feel like they are at home. Furthermore, explore opportunities with the new space. Is the living room a little larger? Maybe this is the time to get that big-screen TV they always wanted.