Thoughts on Moving Away
To move or stay-- is a difficult decision to make. We become attached to the home and city in which we live. Friends, relatives, a local restaurant or a friendly butcher –all are the essence of home. Leaving is an emotional experience and while difficult, may become desirable or necessary as we age.
Why Move?
Older Americans move for different reasons than younger ones do. The primary reasons include:
| » | Financial need |
| » | Moving closer to a child or relatives |
| » | Health concerns |
| » | Inability to care for a house |
| » | Lifestyle change |
| » | Neighborhood considerations |
Ask yourself…
| » | Can the change be afforded now and in the years to come? |
| » | How important are family members and friends, who live close-by now to daily social and emotional life? Is there a willingness to make new friends? |
| » | Is climate such as harsh winters, year round heat, or high altitude a factor? |
| » | Is there a need for specialized health care providers or facilities? |
| » | What are the services and amenities of the community? Do they offer assistance, as persons grow older? Is the environment safe? |
| » | What lifestyle changes are being considered? Is it more time for sports and activities such as golf or tennis, hobbies, gardening, travel, and cultural events? Is it time to wind down and enjoy the roses? |
| » | What type of housing is desired? Is one floor best? What is most appropriate? |
| » | What type of neighborhood or community is being considered? Does the city, country, or suburbs offer the most desirable activities, conveniences, and services. |
You’re moving
Careful planning and organization helps the move go smoothly. The first place to begin may be sorting through belongings. Consider what is needed in the new location in terms of space, social and cultural activities, climate, and cost of moving. Now is the time to donate to charity, take special items to consignments shops, or perhaps hold a yard sale. Packing is easier with fewer possessions.
Professional movers are expensive but may make the move easier. Have all items organized and ready to be packed or moved when the movers arrive. If minimizing cost, pack the boxes. Shop around and research the movers available; the Better Business Bureau usually has reliable information. Long distance costs are based on the weight and distance of the move while local movers generally charge by the hour. Steps for selecting and hiring a mover include:
| » | Checking that insurance coverage is current and sufficient to cover belongings in case of loss or damage |
| » | Obtaining written estimates from several of these companies; consider not only the dollar cost but also the time in transit |
| » | Reading the contract carefully to avoid extra charges that may be added for loading, unloading, or other services |
What to do before the moving day
Make lists of what you need to do. The following is a general beginning:
Banks: Close current accounts if they are not transferable and establish accounts at the new location
Change of Address Forms: Fill out the forms at the local post office for forwarding; look for the space on bills to change the address. When possible, credit card companies, pension funds, government agencies, insurance policies, workplace, and magazines etc. should be notified prior to moving.
Insurance: Notify the agent of the new address and discuss which needs may change because of the move
Medical Records: Obtain records from all existing health care providers and obtain referrals to new providers, if possible. Be as thorough as possible in obtaining medical/surgical records, x-rays, pharmacy, dental, and any other important health documents.
Utilities: Establish the cut-off date at the present home and establish new accounts. This includes electricity, gas, telephone, water, sewer, and garbage removal, lawn service, and security systems.
The moving day "utility pack"
Pack a day utility bag that includes:
| » | Any irreplaceable items of memorabilia or personal significance |
| » | Bed linens and towels for the first night at new home |
| » | Cash or travelers checks |
| » | Current address and phone book |
| » | Enough clothing for several days |
| » | Important personal papers such as wills |
| » | Insurance policies and agents' telephone numbers |
| » | Medications |
| » | Papers related to the house sale |
| » | Personal hygiene items including toilet paper |
| » | The telephone number of the moving company |
Moving often seems overwhelming--planning carefully, taking one step at a time and organizing as much as possible will help decrease the confusion. Enjoy!