Your Guide to Helping Elderly Parents Move

Why Moving Elderly Parents Is Different

Helping an older adult move is unlike any other kind of relocation. While young families might prioritise space and proximity to work or schools, senior moves often revolve around health, accessibility, safety, and emotional connection to “home.”

• Downsizing decades of belongings
• Managing chronic illnesses or mobility issues
• Navigating cognitive decline or memory loss
• Balancing independence with safety
• Dealing with grief and emotional resistance

Step-by-Step Checklist for Moving Elderly Parents

1. Start with a Conversation

Before any packing begins, sit down and talk. Understand their feelings, preferences, concerns, and expectations. If the move is necessary for health reasons, be transparent but empathetic.

2. Involve Them in Decision-Making

Even if you’re handling the logistics, include your parent in decisions big and small. This helps preserve their sense of autonomy and reduces resistance.

3. Assess Health & Medical Needs

• Speak with their GP
• Obtain full medical records
• Schedule referrals to new healthcare providers in the area
• Review medication plans and prescriptions

4. Plan the Timeline and Budget

Factor in time for:

• Decluttering and downsizing
• Selling or renting property
• Home modifications (if necessary)
• Rest periods during the move

Budget for:

• Moving services
• Professional help (e.g. solicitors, professional moving company)
• Transport and overnight stays
• Emergency contingencies

5. Research the Right Living Arrangement

• Is it accessible?
• Are there social activities or a sense of community?
• How close are local healthcare services?
• Is there room for familiar belongings?

The Emotional Side of Downsizing

For elderly individuals, possessions often hold emotional value far beyond their practical use. A teacup might be a memory from their wedding day; a bookshelf, a lifetime of learning and reflection.

Tips for Gentle Downsizing:

• Go room by room, starting with less sentimental spaces
• Use the “Four Box Method”: Keep, Donate, Sell, Bin
• Digitise where possible: Scan photos, letters, and documents
• Involve the family: Host a memory-sharing day to pass on heirlooms

And most importantly – go slow. Give your parent the time to reflect and let go.

Choosing the Right Help: Moving Companies & Services

Specialist relocation companies can make the process significantly easier. They understand the emotional and physical complexities of moving in later life and can handle tasks that might otherwise be overwhelming for both you and your parent.

One trusted example is David Duggleby Removals, a professional removals company with decades of experience supporting families through life’s major transitions. Our services are tailored for any move even those involving older adults moving to a bungalow, monitored apartments or retirement village and include:

• Parking arrangements: Ensuring legal, safe access for loading and unloading
• Secure storage options: For temporary or long-term needs
• Full removal and packing support: Respectfully handling cherished possessions

Travel and Transport for Elderly Parents

How your parent travels to their new home will depend on their health, stamina, and emotional state.

• For local moves: Family transport is ideal
• For longer distances: Consider non-emergency patient transport services
• Plan for breaks: Allow time for meals, rest, and medication

Pack essentials in an accessible bag: ID, prescriptions, a mobile phone, water, snacks, and familiar comforts.

Preparing the New Home

Accessibility Modifications:

• Install grab rails and non-slip mats in the bathroom
• Consider a stairlift if needed
• Ensure smooth transitions between rooms
• Good lighting throughout, especially at night

Familiarity and Comfort:

• Recreate layouts from the previous home
• Decorate with favourite photos, artwork, and mementoes
• Have their favourite food in the kitchen
• Set up familiar routines

Legal and Financial Considerations

• Update their will, Power of Attorney, and Advance Directive
• Inform banks, pensions, and insurance providers of the move
• Change address on the electoral roll and driver’s licence (Check our who to inform moving guide)
• Review estate planning and care costs

After the Move: Settling In and Ongoing Support

Monitor Their Wellbeing:

• Look out for signs of depression, confusion, or fatigue
• Encourage regular social activity
• Schedule medical check-ups

Build New Routines:

• Set up regular family visits
• Introduce them to neighbours
• Help them join local clubs, groups, or places of worship
• Encourage hobbies, volunteering, or mentoring

If the Move Is to Assisted Living or a Care Home

This can be one of the most emotionally challenging types of move. Handle it with care, honesty, and lots of reassurance.

• Visit the facility multiple times beforehand
• Personalise their space with belongings
• Coordinate with staff for a gentle settling-in period
• Maintain regular contact

Final Thoughts: This Is an Act of Love

Helping your elderly parents move isn’t simply about removing clutter and changing postcodes. It’s about honouring their past while helping to build a safe, fulfilling future.

Be patient. Be kind. And don’t be afraid to seek professional support.

You’re not just moving house – you’re making a new home.