In most cases, aging individuals want to remain in their homes for as long as possible, and with the help of their loved ones, they can. At some point, though, it may be necessary to move your elderly relative into an assisted living facility. Naturally, doing so is a big transition, but the whole family can make the move easier by helping out. Below, the compassionate team at Deer Valley Home Health Services in the St. Louis metropolitan area shares a few tips for getting started. 

3 Tips for Helping an Elderly Relative Relocate 

1. Enlist Everyone’s Help

You might not think moving is fun, but when the whole family gets involved, it can provide a wonderful opportunity to visit with loved ones and reminisce at the same time. Invite everyone down for the weekend and host a big cookout on Sunday afternoon to thank them for their help. Not only can you pack up the entire house without having to hire professional movers, but your relative will also have peace of mind knowing any cherished possessions that are not going to the assisted living facility are going to family. 

2. Plan Ahead 

If your loved one lives in a fairly large house and has accumulated a lifetime of furniture, chances are most of it will not be accompanying him or her to the new residence. Before you start packing everything up, determine exactly what needs to go to the assisted living facility and what needs a new home. This will make it so much easier to stay organized every step of the way and will streamline the unpacking process on the other end of the move. 

3. Take It Room by Room 

Packing up an entire house may seem overwhelming, and it certainly can be at times; however, if you get help from a few trustworthy friends or family members and take it room by room, you’ll be surprised at how easy it can be. Start with the smallest rooms that contain the least amount of furniture, like bathrooms and guest rooms, and tackle areas that might have decades of clutter, like attics and basements, last so you don’t get in over your head from the start. 

If your loved one isn’t quite ready to move into an assisted living facility but could use some help around the house, turn to Deer Valley Home Health Services. With locations in St. Louis, St. Charles, and Berkeley, MO, they provide quality elderly care for clients throughout all of St. Louis County. This home health agency is proud to employ compassionate caregivers who work with senior citizens, veterans, and special-needs teenagers. Visit their website to explore all the home care services they provide, or call (314) 355-3679 to discuss your family’s needs today.