27 Sep 2023

 

Stress-Free Move: The Value of Moving Services for Seniors

Get a stress-free senior move. 

Moving can be especially challenging for seniors, especially those with limited mobility and larger homes. Whether you’re a senior planning a move or assisting a loved one, follow these steps to make the process smoother and less stressful. Downsizing, finding the right help, and staying organized are key to a successful move. One of the most critical aspects is assembling the right team to assist with the move.

A professional moving team, along with the support of friends and family, can make the process a success. Here in Massachusetts, Organizing Boston has over 23 years of experience helping people downsize, organize and manage moves all across the Greater Boston area. We have received numerous awards for our top-notch service, including Best of Boston Home, Best Professional Organizer.

Here are some compelling reasons to hire professional organizers for your move:

Physical Limitations

Moving involves physically demanding tasks like packing, sorting, and lifting. Recognize your physical limitations to determine the assistance you need and when you need it. 

Emotional Support

Moving can be stressful, especially for seniors. Proper planning, coordination, and organization are essential for a smooth transition 

 

Top 3 Tips for Stress-Free Senior Moves 

When you let the pros at Organizing Boston handle your move, you get numerous benefits:

Start Early and Create a Moving Timeline

Give yourself plenty of time to plan and execute your move. A well-structured timeline can help you stay organized. 

Declutter and Downsize

Simplify your move by getting rid of items you no longer need or use. 

Enlist Professional Help 

Consider hiring professional movers to handle the heavy lifting and logistics of your move. 

 

Some Limitations to Consider with Senior Moves

As you plan your move, consider these possible limitations. 

Limited Physical Ability

You may use mobility aids like wheelchairs or walkers. Identify challenging areas to access and seek assistance when needed. 

Potential for Injury

If you have health concerns or take medication, be cautious about lifting heavy objects. Know your limits and ask for help when necessary. 

Medications

Ensure you have adequate supply during the move, keep them in a designated location during the move (perhaps even an “essentials box” that stays with you), and plan to transfer medical records if needed. 

Financial Considerations

Stick to your budget and plan accordingly. Seek help from friends family, or a financial advisor if necessary. 

Prioritize Tasks for Senior Moves

Prioritizing tasks is essential to avoid feeling overwhelmed:

Create a task list for your move. 

Focus on one task at a time to prevent overexertion. 

Plan your time wisely and ask for assistance if needed.  

 

Decluttering Before a Senior Move

Decluttering can be a challenging task, but it’s an important step to make the transition smoother and more comfortable.

Improved Safety and Health

Less clutter reduces the risk of accidents.

Easier Maintenance

Having fewer items to clean simplifies daily tasks.

Decluttering Before a Senior Move

Decluttering can be a challenging task, but it’s an important step to make the transition smoother and more comfortable.

Family Preparedness

Minimizing clutter makes it easier for loved ones in the future. 

 

Decluttering Tips

Here are some decluttering tips specifically tailored to seniors.

Start Early

Begin the decluttering process well in advance of the move. This will reduce stress and give everyone more time to make thoughtful decisions about what to keep, donate, or discard.

Sort and Prioritize

Sort belongings into categories like keepsakes, essentials, and items to part with. Prioritize items that hold sentimental value and those needed for daily living. 

Use a System

Label items or use a color-coding system to indicate what should stay, be sold, donated, or given to family members. This helps keep things organized and minimizes confusion.

Downsize Furniture

Consider downsizing furniture to fit the new living space. Choose pieces that are comfortable, functional, and fit the senior’s needs, keeping mobility in mind.

Digitize Memories

Scan or digitize important photos, documents, and mementos. This reduces physical clutter while preserving cherished memories.

Donate or Gift

Donate items you no longer need to charities or family members who may find them useful. Knowing your belongings will be appreciated can make it easier to part with them. 

Choose Sentimental Items Carefully

Likely if you’re moving as a senior, you have accumulated quite a few items that you have an emotional attachment to. Be compassionate with yourself and set a goal of a certain amount of things you can keep, such as a specific tote or container.

Dispose of Hazardous Items

Safely dispose of expired medications, chemicals, or any hazardous materials. Contact local authorities or pharmacies for guidance on proper disposal if there are items you’re not sure about.

Seek Professional Help

If the decluttering process becomes overwhelming, consider hiring a professional organizer or downsizing specialist who specializes in helping seniors navigate this transition.

Plan the Layout

Before moving, plan the layout of the new space with your comfort and safety in mind. Ensure easy access to essential items and minimize tripping hazards.

Seek Out Storage Solutions

Use storage solutions like under-bed storage, wall-mounted shelves, and cabinets to make the most of the available space in your new home.

Stay Positive

Maintain a positive and supportive attitude throughout the process. Downsizing can be emotionally taxing, so pace yourself and take plenty of breaks. 

Moving as a senior can be a positive experience with the right support and planning. By following these tips, you can make your transition to a new home enjoyable and stress-free.

Our team at Organizing Boston is professionally trained in home organizing, office organizing, and move management. We are members of the National Association of Productivity and Organizing Professionals, so you know you’re getting true experts to handle your move.

 

Contact Organizing Boston for Moving Services for Seniors

Don’t go it alone for your next big move. Call or text Organizing Boston today at 617-893-9242 for a free consultation. Our office hours are Monday-Friday from 9:00 am-6:00 pm. You can also reach us anytime by email at [email protected] or contact us here via our contact form. 

With over two decades of award-winning service, Organizing Boston has got you covered for a smooth, stress-free move. Let the packing and organizing experts make your relocation easy!

Organizing Boston serves the Boston, MA area, including Cambridge, Brookline, Newton, Wellesley, Somerville, Lexington, Winchester, Belmont and more.