Changing Spaces: When Parents Leave the Nest

Hiring the Right Hands 

Transitioning to a new space is a big step at any age and stage. Getting your parents ready to leave their nest isn’t only about decluttering, minimizing, and downsizing. It’s also a physical, mental, and emotional process that, above all, should be approached with respect and sensitivity. Luckily, BHM’s senior-transition professionals are at hand to help you navigate this delicate and daunting process both efficiently and effortlessly. 

Having the Talk

It’s not easy being in the middle. If you’re part of the sandwich generation then you know all about it. The dual task of getting your kids to keep up with their homework and your parents to keep up with the housework can be a real balancing act. 

Americans are living longer and longer. In fact, based on U.S. Census Bureau data, the Urban Institute estimates that there could be about 80 million elderly in the country by 2040. With such stats, you’ll want Mom and Dad to be comfortable and safe for the long run, which may mean moving out of the home they raised you in.

Try to discuss your parents’ long-term residential options before they’ve “outgrown” your childhood home. Depending on their budget and needs, they may choose from senior citizen apartment buildings, assisted-living residences, or accessory dwelling units (ADU), among others. If feasible, many people decide to age in place at home. Although they get to skip the hassle of packing and moving, some changes could still be essential. For instance, it’s a good idea to declutter and update their spaces. You’ll want to remove tripping hazards, add accommodative devices (e.g., grab bars, shower chairs, etc.), and install safety aides to prevent falls and accidents. Eldercare professionals, consultants, and occupational therapists can help you determine what’s necessary to keep your parents’ abode safe and senior-friendly.

Decisions, Decisions

When it’s time to move to that forwarding address, decision-making can be overwhelming. What should we take, donate, keep, sell, or throw away? Where do we find a reputable mover? What do we need to pack? Where do we even start? Downsizing and preparing for a move after living in your home for many years is daunting. Most folks don't realize how much work is involved or that it can take months to empty out every drawer, file cabinet, and closet.

In fact, Mom and Pop might have accumulated up to 40, 50, or even 60 years’ worth of belongings! Limited physical ability and an accelerated time frame may pose challenges and lead to a great deal of frustration, too. It’s also important to consider what will actually fit in their new space.  

New Home Sweet Home

Preparing for a safe and organized space for Mom and Dad to age in place gracefully is challenging but doesn’t have to be done alone. BHM can help ease this experience tremendously. In addition to evaluating and sorting your belongings, our senior transition services include holding estate sales, un/packing your items before/after your move, and personally shopping for your new home sweet home. Under our watch, both your loved ones and the things they love will be handled with the utmost care!

Authored by Lisa Goiens, Blog Writer for BHM Estate Sale Services





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