Helping Elderly Parents Make Their Last Move

If you moved a lot as a child, your parents honed the skill to a fine point. Even if you only made that transition once or twice, they guided you through the process. But now they're about to move house for the last time...and the logistics might overwhelm them. Despite everything we've heard about sun-filled retirement villas in Florida, the last move is often not voluntary.

What can you do to make the reality less painful, more of a positive experience? There are some experts who can help you, and their advice follows.

Advice From an Expert

Sue Ronnenkemp is the author of Living Transitions: A Step-by-Step Guide for a Later Life Move. She emphasizes that one of the most important steps in helping parents move is in clearing out the accumulation of years. Allow plenty of time for this, even over a period of months, because the blow will be less and the work can be made into a family project. Begin in the areas of the house not currently being used much, like attics, basements, guest bedrooms. First clear out what actually isn't wanted or needed. Tell your parents there are items you or your siblings would love to have, particularly if they aren't worth a great deal. Then they'll know that things they love will have a good home.

In addition to her book, Ronnenkamp offers a series of free articles, one a month, about the moving process. Her website is: www.livingtransitions.com.

Better Homes and Gardens offers a 'Survival Kit' which you should compile for your parents, to keep for the actual move. This kit could be valuable for several days prior to and after the move. It includes:

Scissors and a utility knife

coffee cups, instant coffee, tea and soft drinks (sugar and artificial creamer if appropriate)

snacks

paper plates, plastic cutlery

paper towels and toilet paper

bar soap and dish soap

pencils and paper, the local telephone directory

masking and duct tape; packaging tape if necessary

bath and hand towels

trash bags

toiletries

flashlights

aspirin and substitutes (as well as all necessary medications, of course)

For moving day, prepare an easily transported pot of soup, chili or a casserole.