Moving Out of the Family Home: What to Expect

Moving In
After all the boxes are unloaded and the furniture is in place, expect it to take a while before your loved one feels settled. Arranging their new space similarly to their former home will aid in the transition. A nice gesture to welcome them into their new space would be to stock their fridge with favorites or bring in their favorite takeout for dinner their first night there. Over time, they should ease back into their old routines and begin to see the advantages of their new home. Just be patient with them as they find their footing.

For the Caregiver
You might be surprised and taken aback by the emotions you experience when moving your parent or loved one out of the home — especially if you’ve shared that home with them in the past. Many caregivers get so caught up in what needs to be done for a move that they don’t take into account the emotional implications the move will have on them. Expect to be bombarded by fond — or not so fond — memories that deserve attention. Watching your loved one go through their emotional process around the move may also affect you greatly. Indulge in these emotions rather than holding them in. They are important and need to be expressed — whether in privacy or with your loved ones — in order to be the strong support system your loved one will need throughout the move process.