As we age, many things change. We enter retirement. Our lifestyle is no longer as active. Our social circle starts to dwindle, and so do our energy levels. Our financial circumstances change as well. We finally have free time to do whatever we want, but the irony is that we may lose a sense of purpose. But if there is one thing humans are good at, it is the ability to adapt and evolve. And if there is one thing professional providers of homecare in Hollywood are good at, it is bringing an enhanced quality of life to the elderly, regardless of the circumstances.
To make an informed decision together with your loved one, you need to develop a firm understanding of what downsizing and relocation mean for the elderly, how you can help them overcome the related hardships and move on so they could leave a more fulfilling, more rewarding life.
Here’s what you can do to turn your elderly loved one’s experience of downsizing and relocation into a comfortable, liberating one!
What is a relocation stress syndrome?
The elderly often become anxiety-ridden even without an apparent cause. Having to say goodbye to a house in which they had lived for decades, perhaps even their whole lives, can be a source of immense frustration. This brings us to Relocation Stress Syndrome is characterized by a host of easily identifiable symptoms: anxiety, confusion, hopelessness, and loneliness. The syndrome is most common in older adults who have recently moved from their family home or other private residence into a nursing home, assisted-living facility or another new and strange environment.
What do you do when your elderly parent refuses to move?
It is never easy to reason with an elderly parent if they are unwilling to cooperate. But try to get them to see the bigger picture: selling their home at the right time will enable them to make the most of their home’s resale value and snap a favorable deal by swapping their former house for a smaller, more affordable home which will not put their financial future at risk.
Do not push it. Be patient and take your time to assure them that you are looking out for their best interest despite your differences in opinion.
If necessary, get outside help. Perhaps you can have a real estate agent come in to discuss options and paint a clear picture of the financial benefits of downsizing and moving into a smaller place, such as:
- More rational use of resources, including energy and retirement savings
- Costly and demanding maintenance and repairs
- Smaller scope of household chores
- More functional space with optimal amenities that is better suited for a senior lifestyle and shift of priorities
- A financial boost with fewer financial concerns translate into less stress which may be the most compelling and the most meaningful reason to downsize
How can I help the elderly move?
The essential part of the relocation process is the packing or, more specifically, decluttering and downsizing. This is where friends and family can pitch in. A companion can play a vital role in the process of helping your elderly run errands and make all the arrangements associated with the relocation, ultimately making your elderly loved one feel at home in their new home.
How can I help seniors downsize?
Downsizing comes with numerous benefits:
- Moving into a smaller property equals less stress, lower costs, less mess and fewer household chores
- Decluttering and reorganizing the living space is a liberating experience which brings a sense of relief
- Downsizing makes it easier to stage the house for the showings
To help your elderly loved one downsize in a meaningful way, start with devising a downsizing plan based on the size, layout and available storage space in their new home.
At what age should you downsize your home?
This depends on various factors and circumstances. Everyone has different reasons to downsize. For the majority of older adults, going into retirement is the moment when downsizing makes most sense, and not only from the financial perspective.
For one thing, they no longer have to go to work or live in the city. Some retirees want nothing more than to move away from the hustle and bustle of urban life within walking distance of Musso & Frank Grill. They want a peaceful and quiet lifestyle, especially if their health has started to deteriorate and they have started to prioritize their medical needs and wellbeing.
Finally, the elderly sometimes just wish to live as close as possible to their family and friends, so they can spend as much quality time with their loved ones as possible. This may also be the best course of action for your elderly loved one after spousal death.
Comprehensive senior homecare in Hollywood and across LA
Even in the face of what seem to be insurmountable difficulties, we can help. At A Better Way in Home Care, we put effort into matching your elderly loved one with a caregiver who will go all out to make your elderly loved one feel more at home in their new home and help them get settled in.
Your elderly loved one deserves a smooth transition into their new way of life, and we will be by your side every step of the way to make sure they get the comfort they need and the wellbeing they deserve. Make your appointment now.
