When Your Elderly Parents Move

Moving the belongings of elderly people is a bit more complicated and sensitive then moving younger people. While the process is much the same: packing, wrapping, and loading up the truck, there are certain sensitivities and levels of sentimentality that must be addressed.

It is difficult to imagine leaving  your home of 30 or 40 years; the home in which you’ve raised your children, shared good times and not-so-good times, and basically built your life. The home has become a part of you, and vice-versa.  No wonder it is so difficult for our parents and grandparents to take the plunge. 

In addition to the emotional aspect of leaving the beloved homestead, there is also the physical aspect to consider. Usually, when older people move, they move to a smaller home. This of course, means letting go of certain things that are no longer useful or necessary, but still have a great deal of sentimental value. Some are memories of beloved ones that had passed away.

Making a Difficult Move Easier

Sensitivity, patience and empathy are key. Remind yourself of the history and memories your parents or grandparents are leaving behind. The notches carved into the corner of the walls that mark your growth over the years, the old picnic bench in the backyard, and the trees and flowers that your parents nurtured for years are enough to tug anyone’s heart strings.

However, one must be practical. Downsizing is a necessity, and you and your parents must be realistic.  The last thing that anyone wants is to fill up the new home and still have half a truck full of furniture waiting in the truck.

Don’t rush your parents.Take your time, plan, and let them get used to the idea.  The movers can provide a full packing service but they can not sort things out for you and your parents. That part is up to you. Sorting out the knick-knacks, papers, and memories won’t be easy and can be a long process. Your parent’s new home might not have a basement, garage and attic on which to store such items. As well, it is likely that the closet space won’t be what they are used to. The “Spring Cleaning” should begin at least few weeks (if not few months) before the move.

What Do I Do with This Stuff?

The grandchildren will probably take some of the furniture, paintings, and the like, but you will still be left with some unwanted pieces. Do not count on a yard sale or even donating to a charity organization. Yard sales require lots of work and there is no guarantee that everything will be sold. The profits are usually minimal and the emotional toll it could take on your parents is clearly not worth it. You might find that charities are pretty picky you could find yourself stuck with a load or two of unwanted furniture.

Instead, you could opt for a tag sale, at which professional middlemen sell as much as possible in one day, or even purchase your unwanted items outright.  Unless that happens, be prepared for a lot of work and a small profit with a tag sale. Another option is loading up their stuff and taking it to the dump. While dumping is an easy fix, it can be costly.

How BestGuy Can Help!

It all begins with the estimate. A professional can give you a pretty good idea of how many boxes will be needed and the amount of furniture that the new house will comfortably accommodate. The BestGuy estimator is a professional, and understands the emotional roller-coaster your parents are riding. He is skilled at offering  compassionate, yet objective advice.  

Your BestGuy estimator will ensure that your parents won’t be forced to endure long days that can take a toll on their physical and emotional well-being. BestGuy Moving also offers a full packing service and can assist in the unpacking and sorting process at their new home.  

We at BestGuy Moving are experienced in assisting senior citizens with their moves, and our crews are trained to be polite, patient and compassionate. Our courteous and professional crew strives to make a difficult time as pleasant as possible.

Finally – BestGuy Moving is also licensed for dumping. We’re your one-stop moving solution! In addition to safely transporting all of your parents’ belongings and furniture, we can also return to empty house and remove anything that is left behind.

While all moves are potentially stressful and difficult, moving your elderly loved ones can be a challenging  experience. Let’s not forget that this move might be emotionally difficult on you too, having grown up in the home, watching your parents age, and worrying about their welfare and happiness.

When the time comes for your parents or grandparents to move, choosing BestGuy Moving will make all the difference!