By Jennifer Bradley, Staff Writer

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"Older adults making a home transition have not moved in 30, 40 or 50 years and need to downsize considerably,” says Mary Kay Buysse, Executive Director for the NASMM. “The organizational and physical tasks associated with planning and executing such a move can be daunting.”

Here are some questions to ask a when looking for a senior moving service:

1. How long have you been providing senior move services?
2. What are your professional credentials?
3. Do you have full liability and worker’s compensation insurance?
4. What are your fees? They should be provided in writing, as with any contract.
5. Can you provide references?

Emotional ease

While hiring outside assistance is great for the practical moving needs, it also allows the family caregiver to spend the time they do have assisting with the emotional transition their loved one is going through. A recent New York Times articles states that “people who use such services can spend $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the selections and nature of the move.” In this case, money may be able to buy happiness, or at least save a headache.

The same Times article also stresses how in times of grief, such as the loss of a parent, or confusion due to a quick move, hasty decisions are made which many seniors and family members later regret. And, for those caregivers in their 50s and 60s, known as the “sandwich generation,” strings are being pulled in many directions: from career, to kids and grandkids, and then their aging parents and other relatives.

“For family members living far away, the additional stress of taking significant time away from career and family obligations can present an even greater challenge,” adds Buysse.  “Senior Move Management has emerged to fill this gap. For long distance caregivers, NASMM members provide end-to-end move services. Collaborating across the miles, they work in tandem to offer senior clients and families a stress-free, joyful move experience."

The transition is not necessarily only for the senior, either. For some adult children, it is as hard for them as their parents to let go of the memories contained in a family home. It may be easier for a third-party to help make the tough decisions with no emotional ties. The aged loved one can also be more honest with a stranger than their own children, as to what they really want to keep and the things they don’t.

 

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