Maybe you’re moving to change things up or to live closer to family, or maybe even to live in warmer weather. The reasons may be endless, but we found that the most prominent reasons why seniors are moving are because of health issues, a need to downsize, and to be closer to family.
Health Issues
Seniors might be relocating solely because of changes in their lives, whether that is a reduction in cognitive function, mobility, or their personal health. Some of these seniors find themselves in critical conditions with obvious complications that require the help of another individual or medical professional. There are also other medical issues that are not as severe but still bring complications. Though health issues like diabetes or a recent bone fracture are milder conditions than the severe medical issues, seniors could use another person’s assistance here and there to make sure that their health is taken care of. Other issues of this sort include arthritis, hearing loss, and allergies.
With whatever medical issue you or a senior may have, big or small, it is important to fully understand it. This will help in relocating the senior as medical conditions must be addressed and nurtured. Moving a senior member of our society also involves moving medical records and switching personal physicians. These aspects should be considered just as much as any other aspect of a big move!
Downsizing
A large number of seniors are moving to downsize. They’ve found that their houses are too big for just 1 or 2 people after living in the same place through decades and life stages. However, downsizing is a bittersweet process for a senior. It is emotionally stressful, but also an exciting next step as it a new beginning.
It is natural to collect overtime. The stress kicks in when you need to figure out what to do with all of the furniture, antiques, clothes, knick-knacks, and more, that the new home will not have room for. They must figure out how to sort, sell, and organize the things they no longer want or need. They also have to figure out what to preserve or honor and how to best do this with their personal items. With this process comes a need for help from friends and family. Seniors need another person to help make these big decisions, just like anyone else. But because they are moving, this might be more stressful for them after living in one place for so long. Some easy ways to start include holding an estate sale, donating reusable items, hosting an online auction, or hiring a removal and clean-out service.
Loneliness
As the size of the household grows smaller, the feeling of loneliness grows larger. When the process of moving is brought up, it is important to remain empathetic the entire time. Understand that although digital communication has grown tremendously, some seniors have impaired hearing or seeing which makes this online communication more difficult. Often, seniors will have a caregiver but this relationship is not one that provides a deep and engaging connection. These factors are just some of the contributions to a senior’s loneliness.
Many studies have found people who are 55+ move closer to family and friends who, a lot of the time, have relocated. Just being near someone familiar brings back a sense of community and intimacy. As humans, we deeply value our relationships, which is why seniors often want to move closer towards family or friends when their household number shrinks.
Not a One-Person Job
Moving is far too large of a task to handle it all by yourself. With Meehan’s Family Moving, you can trust our family-owned business to handle your move with care and diligence. Meehan’s Family Moving understands the importance and possible difficulties in each unique situation. As a third-generation moving specialist, Meehan’s Family Moving is prepared for all kinds of moves that will leave you feeling confident and stress-free. Visit our website to get a free quote!
