Moving to a new location with an elderly parent or family member can have some complications and be a little stressful. There can be complications such as financial, or just getting their stuff packed up, or if you are getting them prepared to go into a senior home, they might not want to go. No matter the complications, there are ways to help the transition in order for everyone to be unharmed. Therefore, in order to help you both transition to the new location, here are five safety tips that will make the move easier and bring about a stronger bond of the relationship that you both have.
1. Lighter Packing
When you decide to either one help an elderly parent move to your home, or to a new home, packing is obviously one of the harder parts of the task. However, by taking the precautions of packing lighter and going through their belongings will help the process be safer. The reason you will want to go through their belongings with them will simply help you get closer to the individual as well as preparing the belongings in a safer fashion. You will want to make sure the items are stored properly so they will not damage your parent or additional belongings. The best way to start packing properly is to go through the items room by room. You can also get a support team to help you with the process to move quicker. However some of the items can be discarded or donated, but be aware of the emotional connection that the elderly one might have to some items. One of the best things to remember when packing up their belongings is to pack the items securely, therefore making them safer to unpack them once the final destination is reached.
2. Preparing The New Home Before The Move
While considering all the safety options about moving your elderly parent or family member, one of the most essential safety tips would be to ensure the new home is safe for the elderly. This can include making sure the proper safety precautions are in place and making sure everything is inspected a few time. A good example would be the stairs. If the new home has stairs, it would be good to make sure a grip bar is installed that way the elderly have something to grab onto while making their way up the steps. This goes for outside deck stairs and inside stairs. If you have a home that has no stairs, then the right tools need to be installed if there is a need for wheelchair access. By making sure home is safe for the elderly parent, this will make the transition easier once you move into the home.
3. Preparing The Elderly Before The Move
Another great safety tip for moving with an elderly parent would be to make sure they are fully ready to go. This can include their belongings, as well as mentality. Some elderly people have a hard time transitioning to a new place because it is unknown. However, if you make sure they are prepared by giving them positive feedback and information, it will be safer than just up and moving them.
4. Planning The Move
Planning the move with the elderly will be in fact a key element upon the actual move. By staying organized and planning efficiently, this will not only reduce stress but also ensure the move is as safe as possible. A good example would be to draw out a plan of the new home on paper and placing pictures loosely on the side. You can then show the plan to the elderly parent to inquire how they would like it to be set up. This will allow them to feel included, and make the process of moving the items easier. To top that off, once you get to the new home, you will already have an idea of where to put the items, and the elderly will have the same idea. This can prevent stresses that can be safety hazards for moving with an elderly parent.
5. Communication
The last biggest safety tip is communication. The reason for this is that if you just simply tell your elderly parent you are moving them, they are known to lash out sometimes and cause problems. By communicating correctly with the elderly parent or family member, this will help keep everyone on the same page, as well as preparing for the move in a safer fashion. In addition, by communicating it will help build your relationship to a stronger level, thus making the process safer and more efficient. They will have trust and faith in you to move all of their cherished things.
In conclusion, following the above safety tips will help you and your elderly parent or family member stay safer before, during, and after the move. Bringing an elderly parent or family member to a new location can have problems, but by sticking to your plans, this obstacle will be executed in a safer fashion for you and the elderly parent.
