May 19, 2023 - Assisted Living
Senior Moving Checklist
Moving can be stressful for anyone, but it can be particularly difficult for seniors who are downsizing or transitioning to assisted living. To make the process go more smoothly, we’ve created a senior moving checklist that divides the moving process into manageable parts.
Use this checklist to plan, prepare, and pack for your move into a senior living community, and settle into your new home.
Planning & Preparation
Start Planning Early
Begin planning your move at least 2–3 months in advance. This will allow you to:
- Sort through your belongings
- Donate, sell, or discard items you don’t need
- Arrange the items you’ll be taking with you
Create a Budget
Make a moving budget and stick to it. Include all essential costs, such as packing materials, moving company fees, and extra services. If you’re on a limited budget, consider selling some of your possessions to help cover the cost of the move.
You can also search for movers who provide senior discounts or lower rates during off-seasons.
Downsize
Downsizing your belongings is an essential part of moving into a senior living community. You’ll need to go through each room and decide which items to keep, donate, sell, or discard. Focus on keeping the items most important to you that will fit in your new home.
If you have difficulty deciding what to keep, consider asking a family member or close friend to help you. You can also hire a professional organizer to assist you with downsizing and decluttering.
Hire a Trustworthy Moving Company
Hire a reputable moving company that specializes in senior moves. Research companies, read reviews, and ask for referrals from family and friends.
Keep Other Services in Mind
You may need to plan for additional services such as pet transportation, vehicle transportation, or a cleaning service, depending on your situation.
Packing & Labelling
Label Boxes by Room and Contents
To make unpacking simpler, label each box by room and contents. Color-coded stickers can help ensure that boxes are put in the correct room in your new space.
Pack Essentials Separately
Separately pack important items in a box that is readily accessible. Medication, toiletries, a change of clothes, and essential documents should all be included in this box.
Pack Fragile Items with Care
To safeguard your belongings during the move, use the proper packing materials. Wrap fragile objects in bubble wrap or packing paper before placing them in a box labeled “fragile.”
Consider Professional Packers
Consider hiring expert packers if you’re feeling overwhelmed by packing. Professional packers can make the process simpler and more efficient, and they have the experience and expertise to safely and securely pack your possessions.
Professional packers can pack your complete home or just specific items such as fragile or valuable items.
Moving Day
Notify Utility Companies and Service Providers
Notify utility companies and service providers of your move and make arrangements for service disconnections at your old home.
Stay Organized
Stay organized on moving day by maintaining a list of everything that needs to be loaded onto the moving truck. Check each room and cupboard to make sure everything is packed and ready to go. Also, plainly label boxes so that the movers know where to put them in your new home.
Coordinate with the Senior Living Community
Coordinate with the senior living community to make sure that your move-in day goes smoothly. Find out what their policies are regarding move-in times, parking, and unloading.
Say Goodbye to Your Old Home
Moving can be emotional, especially if you’ve lived in your old home for many years. Take some time to say goodbye to your old home and to reflect on the memories you’ve made there. Take a few photos or videos to remember the space, and say goodbye to your neighbors and friends.
Settling in to Your New Home
Set up Your New Space
Begin by placing the necessities first, such as bedding, toiletries, and medicine. Then, arrange furniture and organize your belongings to make your new place feel like home.
Get to Know Your New Community
Moving into a senior living community can be a major change, so take your time getting acquainted with your new surroundings. Take a walk of the neighborhood, get to know your new neighbors, and get involved in community events and activities.
Add Personal Touches
Make your new space feel like home by decorating and personalizing it. Hang up your favorite artwork, display family photos, and arrange your furniture to your liking. This will help you feel more comfortable and settled in your new home.
Keep this Checklist
Moving can be a stressful and emotional experience, particularly for seniors who are downsizing and moving into a senior living community. However, with proper planning and preparation, the process can be made simpler and more manageable.
Use this senior moving checklist as a guide to help you through the process and ensure that your move goes as smoothly and stress-free as possible. If you have any concerns before moving in to Peregrine Senior Living, don’t hesitate to reach out to us, we’re available to help make the transition as smooth as possible.
