Moving isn't exactly fun. Whether you do it yourself or hire movers, it almost always takes more time and work than you bargained for. This comes as no surprise to most adults who have moved on more than one occasion — for a new job, a company transfer or a change of scenery. There's another kind of move, though, known as the senior move, which may not be as familiar to you or your clients. It's much more involved than moving from Point A to Point B.
Imagine you have an older client who has adult children who live far away or who has no children at all. Suddenly, because of a change in circumstances or the health of your client or their spouse, it becomes necessary to downsize considerably after decades in one place. Such a move can mean going from a 2,500-square-foot home with a lifetime of belongings to a 400-square-foot apartment with room only for necessities and the most meaningful items. An extraordinary transition like this can be hard to manage for anyone.
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According to the National Association of Senior Move Managers, there are professionals who assist retirees and their families with the emotional and physical aspects of relocation or “aging in place” in order to remain at home as long as possible.
While senior move managers come from diverse backgrounds (nursing, health care, social work or marketing, to name a few), they share a genuine commitment to older adults, deep compassion and expertise, as well as the desire to perform meaningful work. Depending on your clients' needs, they can assist with a variety of tasks as your clients make the transition to a new home.
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With more than 850 senior move management companies throughout the U.S., Canada and abroad, there's likely someone close by with the experience, compassion and expertise to help with a senior move. A great place to start is the
National Association of Senior Move Managers' website where you can easily search for accredited providers.
Because of variables like the geographic region and the services requested, fees can vary substantially. Also, some managers charge an hourly fee, while others charge a flat rate.
Encourage your clients to ask for a thorough outline and written estimate in advance. And be sure to communicate with your clients as they plan for the expenses and possible tax deductions.
MAKE LIFE SIMPLER
Even the most unexpected and drastic downsize can be made easier and less stressful with someone to answer questions and help with logistics. With the proper plan and a caring professional, having fewer square feet might actually make life simpler and cozier than ever before.
Eliminating what won't fit in a new home is the most obvious and daunting task. But that's just part of what a senior move manager can offer or help facilitate, including:
•Shipments and storage.
•Solutions for improving safety and mobility.
• Organizing, sorting and packing.
• Related services such as cleaning, waste removal, shopping and senior escort.
•Interviewing, scheduling and overseeing movers.
•Preparing current home for sale.
•Transferring utilities and mailing address.
• Unpacking and setting up the new home.
Francis J. McAleer Jr. is director of retirement solutions at Raymond James.
