Five Best Moving Tips for Seniors + Free Moving Printables

For more than two decades, Resort Lifestyle Communities has helped hundreds of residents transition into our beautiful retirement communities. Even with a destination as relaxed and worry-free as RLC, being prepared is the best way to enjoy the process. Take deep breaths, look ahead, and focus on your new home while moving, so you are less likely to feel overwhelmed. And, if you do, it’s ok; it can happen to anyone, no matter what season of life you’re in.  

One of the things we’ve learned over the years is that planning ahead can greatly enhance your moving experience. That’s why we’ve outlined five of our best tips to help your transition go as smooth as possible. If you’re moving to a retirement community soon, there’s no time like the present to get started.   

1. 1. Get A Binder. Your first move is to create a “moving binder” to hold all of your notes, receipts, and any paperwork you collect through the process. On the first page, start jotting down details, such as: 

> What’s my moving budget?  
> Who’s helping me move? 
> How big are each of my new rooms? 
> Will I need to rent storage? 
> What’s my timeline? 
> Who will watch my pet on moving day?

Knowing these answers and researching your options will help you get off to a great start. PS. Feel free to name your binder, because it may become your new best friend. We like Chuck!

2. Find Your Movers. As soon as you know your timeline, line up people to help you move. Whether that’s securing a moving company or letting family know when you need them, it’s smart to “book” everyone early.

Not sure if you need to hire a mover? Even if you’re just moving across town, there are several benefits to consider. For one, movers can help you safely and efficiently pack your things. On moving day, they know how to properly carry heavy items. They’re also equipped to wrap furniture to reduce damage. And, it will certainly be less stressful. It’s at least worth getting an estimate or two. Need a referral? We have plenty of mover contacts to share with you. Feel free to call us for names in your area. 

3. Plan Your Space. Get a copy of your new floor plan, including the square footage, and start assessing and measuring your belongings. If you are moving into one of the RLC communities, the floor plans are on your community’s website. Allow yourself plenty of time for this step, and use a sorting system as you go through the house. Use colored stickers and label what you’re going to keep, store, donate, and sell. If you find yourself feeling anxious, this article on "rightsizing" may be helpful.

Use your trusted binder to keep track of notes. Write down the recipients of your donation items. Make a list of what’s going into storage. If you have items to sell, jot them down and determine prices. By the time you’re finished, you’ll know exactly which treasured items you’re moving, and it will be much easier when it comes time to pack.

4. Pack Your Things. Our biggest tip for packing is to focus on one area of the house at a time to keep from feeling overwhelmed or getting too tired. When packing fragile items, it’s always better to have extra padding than not enough. Also, keep in mind the weight of items as you pack each box. Mix heavier items with lighter ones to keep the overall weight more reasonable for lifting.

This is a great time to ask for help. Host a packing party or hire a professional packing crew, just know you don’t have to do this alone.

Regardless of who helps, it’s important to stay organized. Clearly label each box with the room name and list of contents. That way you know exactly what’s inside when it’s time to unpack. This will also help you prioritize which boxes to open first. We have printable labels for you below.

5. Move Ahead. For moving day, pack a suitcase as if you’re going on a trip. Include clothes for a few days and any personal items you will need right away, such as your toothbrush and medications.

Also, pack an “essentials” box. This should include your bedding, a set of towels, toilet paper, paper towels, trash bags, dish soap, paper and pen, scissors, and toolbox. If you’re a coffee lover, include your coffee pot and favorite mug. If you have a pet, be sure to pack his or her food. This will be the first box you unpack.

Bonus tip: Be patient and kind to yourself. Set aside time to reward yourself at different stages of the process. Once you’ve created your binder, enjoy an indulgent meal. After you’ve sorted through your things, schedule a relaxing massage or round of golf. Give yourself things to look forward to as you go along. You deserve it. 

Speaking of treats, we’ve created a free Moving Packet to help you stay organized. It includes a series of printables, such as a moving checklist and suggested timeline for each step of the process. It also includes inventory lists, so you can record what’s packed in each box. Finally, there are moving labels you can tape to your boxes, or print on Avery label stickers, to help identify your precious cargo. All you have to do is download the packet, print, and use.

Good luck with your move! If you’re still deciding on a new home, we’d be honored to have you live in one of our all-inclusive, resort-style communities. Explore a location near you, and call us to schedule a personal tour.