Helping an older relative move should begin with their priorities and decisions. Agree what help they want, what they prefer to handle themselves and who may communicate with suppliers. Do not assume age alone determines ability or that helping with packing gives authority over property or finances.
Make the plan manageable
- Visit or measure the destination and discuss the everyday layout.
- Break sorting into short sessions with clear stopping points.
- Keep valued belongings and important records easy to locate.
- Arrange continuity for care, prescriptions and support where relevant.
Use plain labels and a written schedule that suits the person. Confirm any formal authority needed for legal or financial instructions with the relevant professional. Keep decisions about shared or sentimental possessions transparent and avoid removing items without agreement.
On moving day, provide a comfortable place away from the loading route and keep essentials with the household. Set up familiar furniture, lighting and sleeping arrangements first. After arrival, check practical tasks such as keys, heating instructions and local contacts together. The aim is a home the person can confidently use, with support matched to their preferences.
Put it into practice
Use the family and accessibility moving planner to organise your own figures or next steps. Keep its assumptions alongside your plan.