Keep It Simple When Helping Mom and Dad Move from Home

Keep It Simple

A majority of Americans over 65 are homeowners and it is predicted that many will be looking for a smaller home and different a living style.   The country’s largest franchise moving company with the quirky name, Two Men And A Truck predicts that children and families of the Baby Boomer generation will soon find themselves helping parents and loved one move.

The company reports that  from 2000 until 2011, folks 65 years and older grew nearly 18 percent, up to 41.4 million. Nearly 81 percent of that age group owned homes at the end of 2011.

The company says moving a senior family member is challenging. No one wants to upset that person, and everyone wants the move to go as smoothly as possible. This can sometimes seem like an impossible task.

They advise, the important thing to remember when moving a senior is to stay organized and calm throughout the move.  When moving a senior into a living facility, consider contacting management to find out what can be brought onto the campus, what are appropriate moving hours, and do they have any best practices for the move.

Here are some of their tips:

• Start packing several weeks in advance. Pack early to avoid being overwhelmed as moving day draws near.
• Wrap small items in colored paper. This prevents items such as knick-knacks from becoming lost or thrown out.
• Label boxes on top and sides. Mark the top and sides of boxes as they’re packed. Make sure to label boxes containing breakable or sentimental items with “fragile.”
• Pack all electronic equipment in original boxes. Otherwise use low-static bubble wrap when packing these items
• Always use packing paper. When wrapping fine china and precious items, the ink from printed newsprint may bleed onto valuables.
• Sealing all boxes with packing tape. This makes it easier to stack and protect belongings.
• Use boxes designed for the items you are packing. Use dish pack boxes for dishes and wardrobe boxes for clothing.

Remember to Keep It Simple.                                                            

Category: Blog