How to Help an Elderly Relative with a Long Distance Move?

Making a long distance move can be challenging for anyone, but especially so for elderly relatives. As a caregiver, you want to ensure the move goes as smoothly as possible. With some planning and support, you can minimize stress and help your elderly loved one transition to their new home.

Research Logistics

One of the first steps is researching logistics like timing, transportation, and housing. Consider things like:

• The best time of year for the move based on weather, holidays, etc. Spring or fall may be ideal.
• Whether your relative should drive themselves or use other transportation like a medical transport service. Driving may be tiring or unsafe over long distances.
• Housing options like retirement communities near family members. Tour places in advance if possible.
• Costs for movers, storage units, real estate fees, etc. Create a moving budget.

Outsource Tasks

Don’t take on every task yourself. Outsource what you can to professionals. Hire:

• Movers to safely pack and transport belongings. Choose a reputable company.
• A real estate agent to handle home sales and closings. Look for someone experienced with seniors.
• Handymen for any renovations needed at the new home, like installing grab bars or ramps.
• A medical transport service for the actual move, if needed. They can provide door-to-door service with extra assistance.

Also, consider hiring a moving coordinator. They can manage details and vendors so you can focus on your loved one.

Downsize Possessions

Long before moving day, begin sorting through possessions and downsizing. This makes packing easier and lowers moving costs. Have your relative:

• Donate or sell unwanted furniture and household items. Host estate sales or use sites like Craigslist.
• Give sentimental items to family members who will treasure them.
• Scan or photocopy important documents to reduce paperwork. Shred unnecessary files.
• Plan for items that should move to assisted living facilities like clothes, medications, and small decor. Storage space is limited.

Through each step, discard items not needed in the new home. Possessions can accumulate over a lifetime.

Provide Emotional Support

A major move is emotionally difficult at any age. Your elderly family member will need extra reassurance.

• Involve them in decisions to give a sense of control. But avoid overwhelming them.
• Share positive thoughts about family visits or new adventures. Help them see the benefits.
• Reminisce over old photos and memories from their current home. Capture keepsakes.
• After the move, spend quality time settling them into the new home and community.
• Maintain familiar traditions, hobbies, and routines when possible for comfort.

Also, watch for signs of depression like changes in appetite or energy. Seek medical advice if needed. Be patient and offer a listening ear.

Coordinate Care and Services

To prevent gaps in care, coordinate doctors, providers, and services prior to relocating.

• Obtain referrals for new primary care doctors and specialists, if needed. Transfer prescriptions, medical records, and insurance plans.
• Arrange for in-home health aids, meal deliveries, cleaners, or other services needed for daily living. Tour the agencies.
• Confirm coverage for equipment like hospital beds or oxygen tanks. Handle rentals or purchases.
• Know facility policies if your relative is moving to senior housing. Can outside aides come? What care is provided?

Introduce your elderly loved one to new providers before and after the move. This helps ensure continuity of care.

Stay Organized

Lastly, organization is key when coordinating a major move.

• Create folders and lists for tasks, deadlines, contracts, and other important paperwork.
• Use calendars and reminders to schedule required appointments and reserve vendors.
• Keep family members looped in on plans and progress. Encourage visits.
• Plan regular check-ins by phone after the move to help your loved one continue adjusting.

With some planning and support, you can make this significant transition manageable for your elderly family member. Reach out for help when needed – you don’t have to do everything alone.