What is senior move manager?

A senior move manager is a professional who specializes in assisting older adults and their families with the emotional and physical aspects of relocation and/or "aging in place."  In general, senior move managers share a profound commitment to connecting with older adults and a desire to perform meaningful work.

Why should I hire a senior move manager?

Most seniors have not moved in 30 plus years and are overwhelmed with the prospect of downsizing.   A senior move manager not only assists with the physical tasks, but can also help with the emotional stress that is associated with a move.  Today, many adult children are unable to assist with the moving process because they often live too far away or are already over-extended with their careers and family obligations.

What is the difference between a moving company and a senior move management company?

A moving company handles the actual moving of the client's possessions while a senior move management company addresses all aspects of the move process beginning with the development of an overall move plan. With the gentle and expert guidance of an experienced senior move manager, older adults and families make key decisions without the emotional and physical distress that can follow. As a result, they avoid the costly mistakes and remorse that often accompany such major lifestyle transitions.

What services do senior move managers provide?

Although specific services vary, most senior move managers can help with some or all of the following:

• Developing an overall move or “age in place” plan.
• Creating customized floor plans.
• Organizing, sorting and downsizing.
• Arranging for the profitable disposal of unwanted items through auction, estate sale, buy-out, consignment, donation or a combination of the above.
• Assistance in securing a moving company. 
• Arranging shipments and storage.
• Packing, unpacking and setting up the new home.
• Other related services such as; shopping, junk removal, assisting with the selection of a realtor and helping prepare the home to be sold.

How much do senior move management services cost?

It's virtually impossible to calculate what a specific move might cost, as the fee can vary considerably depending on the services requested.  Additionally, some senior move managers charge their fees on an hourly basis, while others prefer to package the cost of the entire job at one price.  Ask for a written estimate before you are required to submit payment.  Often senior living communities will offer a credit to use senior move management services.

Source: Stacey France and Susie Collins, The Last Re-Sort Senior Relocation Service, 301-602-8076, www.thelastre-sort.com

Some information obtained through the National Association of Senior Move Managers.