Thanks to Guest Blogger Sharon Wagner ...
Sharon Wagner from Senior Friendly (seniorfriendly.info) provides valuable insights about the challenge and rewards of caring for aging parents.
Your parents’ goal when you were younger was to raise an independent individual that went out into the world and conquered it on their own terms. While you have done that, your parents are getting older now, and you’re considering moving closer so that you can provide a helping hand when they need it most. But, how do you know it’s time? And, when the time is right, what’s the best way to make the move as easy on you and your own family as possible?
Today on the Orgnze blog, we’ll touch on this touchy subject.
When Is the Time Right?
While there’s no definitive right or wrong answer to this question, most adult children plan to move closer to their parents when they can no longer care for themselves. They may have trouble with activities of daily living, for example, or can simply no longer drive to doctors’ offices for appointments. Keep in mind, however, as Senior Advisor explains, that moving your parents closer to you may also be an option depending on their circumstances.
Moving Your Business
If you’re currently a long-distance caregiver and an entrepreneur, you also need to make plans to move your business when you start looking for houses closer to your parents. Start this process by working remotely when possible. If you have physical goods that you must pack, hire a moving company that will label boxes for you. Plan early, and don’t forget to form your business structure in your new state.
Organization Is Essential
When you’re getting ready to move, you’ll find that you have way more stuff than you thought you did. If your new home is smaller than your current home, consider our downsizing assistance services, which can help you declutter and get rid of all the things you no longer need. Plus, purging before the move will save (and maybe even make) you money!
Caregiving in the Interim
It may take many months to make your move, and your attention may be on the process. However, don’t neglect your caregiver duties just because you’re going to soon be there. If needed, look for a few professionals that can help. This might be a lawn aeration company, someone to wash your parents’ windows, or carpet cleaning service. No matter which type of contractor you choose, do your research, look for deals, get plenty of quotes, and read what other customers have to say.
Rent a Storage Unit
Unless you are able to buy and close on a new home or have a set date for an apartment and know the dimensions of everything before you move, having a storage unit on hold is a wise choice. These are fairly affordable, and many storage facilities offer hefty discounts to attract new customers. Your storage unit can also serve as an inventory overflow for your business if you can’t find a space as large as you’re in now.
One final consideration if you have children: your parents likely did not raise you the same way that you’re raising your own children. BestLife does a great job at illustrating some of these differences, such as offering children the opportunity to set their own bedtime or not doling out punishments that grandparents might think are appropriate. Before you move, have a tough conversation with your parents about how you expect them to interact with your children and what their involvement level will be. Once you’re ready, it’s time to plan on moving your business, your staff, and your life to be closer to mom when she needs you the most.
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