Helping An Elderly Relative Move 4 Things To Keep In Mind
Helping An Elderly Relative Move 4 Things To Keep In Mind. Moving home is easily one of the most stressful experiences a person can go through. The sense of discombobulation, combined with the general chaos of the move, makes the entire process a hassle from start to finish. Sure, it’s worth it, but the actual move in and of itself is incredibly difficult to handle.
The above is true of the vast majority of people, but it is especially true for people who are of a certain age. Moving challenges the very concept of home comforts for older people and can be particularly difficult to cope with if they have lived in their home for many, many years – not to mention all the planning requirements that any move requires. In addition to these basic challenges, there is also the additional complication of the worries you may have regarding overstepping boundaries and being too helpful – all in all, it’s a complex situation, but the pointers below should help you to navigate it as successfully as possible…
Ask how much help your relative requires
It’s important to address the issue of moving head-on with an elderly relative and ask just how much help they feel would be beneficial. If they are moving to a form of independent living for elders, then they are likely more than capable of managing much of the move for themselves; whereas if they are moving to obtain a higher level of care, you may need to handle more of the process on their behalf. Either way, it’s helpful to ask how much help they feel they need, which also provides you with the opportunity to…
Make it clear you’re available
Use the above conversation as an opportunity to outline just how much you are willing to help with the move. It’s often helpful to volunteer this information and make it clear you want to help, as this makes it more likely they will feel comfortable asking for assistance if needed.
Monitor the process from afar
If your elderly relative has chosen to manage much of the move for themselves, it’s important to allow them to do this. Independence is vitally important to many older people; though you may feel tempted to step in and take control, this should very much be the last route you explore. Initially, it’s preferable to monitor from afar, asking them occasionally how they are managing, asking whether they have hired movers or begun packing yet, and gently reaffirming you’re more than willing to provide extra assistance if required.
Establish a budget if you are asked to help
If your help is requested, the next step is to discuss a budget for the move. If they intend to finance the move, you need to agree on a strict budget that you can work within when hiring movers or planning storage facilities. If you believe this budget is insufficient, then you can either discuss this directly or top the budget up from your own funds.
In conclusion
Helping an elderly loved one to move is often fraught with difficulties, and can be a difficult balancing act between providing necessary assistance and being more involved than they are comfortable with. If you adhere to the principles above, then you should be able to navigate this tricky situation in order to ensure the best possible moving experience for your relative. Good luck.