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Caring for a senior loved one can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. If it has come time for you to move closer to your senior family member, a bit of preparation can keep the process from becoming overwhelming. Team Senter from Mission to Close Real Estate has provided tips on how to identify when it’s time to move closer to your loved one, how to help them decide between living options, and more.

Is It Time To Move Closer?

If your elderly family member needs more care than you or other relatives can provide, it might be time for you to consider relocating so they can receive the attention they need. If you notice any signs that they have difficulty with everyday activities like cooking, cleaning, taking medication correctly, or remembering appointments, it could indicate that it’s time for you to move closer and provide more hands-on assistance.

Helping Your Senior Loved One Review Their Living Options

Once you’ve identified that moving closer is the right thing, it’s essential to help your senior family member review their living options — that is, if their current home no longer accommodates their needs or desires. This is especially true if they require specialized care for medical professionals or have mobility issues that are keeping them from living independently at home. Assisted living communities are often the best option in this type of situation, as they provide 24/7 medical care while still allowing seniors some independence and autonomy in their daily lives.

Moving in to take care of a senior loved one is an honorable decision. It can be difficult, however, to find the perfect house for them to call home. Take time to research housing options in the local area that fit your needs and budget, and consider visiting any potential homes in person before making a final decision. When possible, A Place for Mom encourages you to give your loved one a say in the matter because they might want specific features or amenities that make their transition easier.

When you’re ready to start looking for a home that can accommodate your loved one’s and your needs, contact Team Senter from Mission to Close Real Estate to see what is available in your desired area.

Getting a Pre-Approval

Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is also crucial in the homebuying process. It gives you a realistic idea of your budget and exactly how much you can afford to spend, removing any guesswork involved in the decision-making process.

Prospective lenders will review your financial history and provide you with an estimate of what monthly payments may look like should you be approved for a loan. This will give you a clear picture of what to expect when it comes time to make an offer, arming you to make informed decisions on potential properties. Pre-approval also lets sellers know that you’re serious about purchasing, increasing your chances of making a successful offer (especially when competing against other buyers).

Making the Moving Process Easier on a Budget

Moving can also be financially stressful, so it’s essential to consider how much budgeting will go into making the transition as smooth as possible. If your finances are tight, there are many ways to reduce the costs associated with moving without sacrificing the quality of service or goods needed during the relocation.

For example, you can use online services like Freecycle or Craigslist instead of buying new furniture appliances, saving you a significant amount of money while helping reduce waste. Opting for self-packing services instead of hiring professional movers can further lower your relocation costs!

Spending More Time Together

Whether you are moving in with your loved one or simply moving closer, you will be able to spend more time together, which is priceless. You can find ability-appropriate workouts to do together to keep their mobility and muscle mass up, and you can get together for family dinner. If possible, get your siblings or your kids involved, too, for an even more memorable occasion.

Do Your Research to Prepare for Your Move

Moves involving seniors can bring about many challenges and obstacles, but with proper planning and budgeting, you can overcome these obstacles while maintaining a sense of calm. Remember to research different housing options and review strategies that align with your budget before making any major decisions regarding your relocation. That way, you can ensure you and your loved one enjoy a smooth transition into your new home while setting yourselves up for long-term success!

by Janet Campbell of The Elder Spark Team