Moving with Elderly or Disabled

Before the move:

• Think about a complete moving service – removalists that will pack everything from your current house and unpack it all in your new home

• Ask the removalist company if they have helped those who are elderly or disabled previously

• Try to keep the amount of possessions moved to a minimum. If necessary have a garage sale before the move

• There may be some items that are too sentimental to sell. Think about who will take care of these possessions, or the hire of a storage unit

• Make sure medical records are kept safe and moved separately. 

• Transfer any services you need – doctors, support care/assistants, etc.

• Make sure the house is easily accessible and that all your connections are organised if life support or other vital medical equipment is required

• Make sure you notify everyone that you are moving – specialists, carers, friends and family

• If necessary, install support bars in bathrooms and around relevant areas the house

• Build ramps and change door knobs if necessary

After the move:

• When unpacking, make sure that rooms are clutter free and there is easy access to all rooms

• Plan for friends and family to visit after the move to help ease the transition

• Find out from other people what it’s like to live in the area – there may be organisations for the elderly or disabled nearby

• Find out about nearby facilities in case of emergency and have a list of contacts handy so that you can call people if need be