Senior Move Managers Can Help Older Adults Achieve a Stress-Free Move

Whether you’re moving yourself or a loved one, managing a complicated relocation is no easy task – especially when it involves downsizing. After all, moving from a beloved home filled with years of memories and possessions is difficult – both emotionally and physically – for anyone. And for seniors, the process of downsizing due to retirement, illness or family-related issues can be particularly stressful.

Thankfully, there are numerous moving professionals and consultants who specialize in managing this very kind of difficult transition. If you or a family member are downsizing and/or making a move to a retirement community or assisted living facility, I highly recommend enlisting an official Senior Move Manager® to assist with all aspects of the relocation. Senior Move Managers® are members of the National Association of Senior Move Managers (NASMM) and specialize in moving issues affecting older adults.

Read on to find more information about how the right Senior Move Manager® can help you or a loved one handle an upcoming relocation.

What is NASMM?

For those unfamiliar with NASMM, we’ll give you a quick rundown. The National Association of Senior Move Managers® is the leading membership organization for Senior Move Managers® in the United States, Canada and abroad. The organization offers innovative programs and expertise related to downsizing moving issues affecting seniors. NASMM members are trained to recognize and manage various stressors related to moving older adults.

What is a Senior Move Manager®?

According to NASMM, Senior Move Managers® provide important downsizing and relocation services to seniors. They often have backgrounds in gerontology, social work, health care, nursing, psychology, marketing and project management. The organization states that these professionals assist older adults and their families with both the emotional and physical aspects of moving and/or “aging in place.” Unlike a regular moving company, Senior Move Managers® offer a more holistic approach to the moving process, which according to the organization is now more important than ever. As the Baby Boom generation retires, the population of Americans aged 65 years and older will jump by 80 percent in the next decade. NASMM reports that by 2030, senior citizens will account for “one-fifth of the total U.S. population.” With this in mind, Senior Move Managers® who assist with this influx will be particularly helpful in the coming years. According to NASMM, here is the official role of a Senior Move Manager®:

“ Senior Move Managers® minimize the chaos and stress associated with moving by addressing all aspects of the move process. They are responsible for creating and executing a seamless action plan, customized to the client’s wishes.”
“Actually, some but not all Senior Move Managers® are also movers. Those providers that are not movers will work closely with a reputable local moving company to complete that aspect of the job.”
“With the gentle and expert guidance of an experienced Senior Move Manager® , older adults and families make the 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.”
“ Senior Move Managers® do so much more than simply sort, settle and move boxes; with loads of energy, enthusiasm and experience, Senior Move Managers® take the worry (and work!) out of the move process. The client’s job is to simply enjoy his or her new living arrangement.”

What is the criteria to be considered a Senior Move Manager®?

The organization states that all general members must meet a set of strict requirements before approval. These requirements include: obtaining general business liability insurance; passing of NASMM Cornerstone Courses; several letters of recommendation from senior clients they have moved or from a senior living community with which they work; a link to a live website that highlights their Senior Move Management Services; and signing an agreement to abide by the NASMM Code of Ethics.

What services can I expect?

Services offered by Senior Move Managers® vary depending on the person and company. However, the organization lists possible Senior Move Manager® services, which include:

Developing an overall move or “age in place” plan
Organizing, sorting and downsizing
Customized floor plans
Arranging for the profitable disposal of unwanted items through auction, estate sale, buy-out, consignment, donation, or a combination of the above
Interviewing, scheduling and overseeing movers
Arranging shipments and storage
Supervise and oversight of professional packing
Unpacking and setting up the new home
Related services, such as cleaning, waste removal, shopping, senior escort, assisting with selection of a realtor and helping prepare the home to be sold.

How do I find a Senior Move Manager®?

To find a qualified Senior Move Manager®, visit NASMM’s website and click on “Find a Senior Move Manager®.” Then enter your zipcode to find a Senior Move Manager® in your area that fits yours needs.

Need additional help moving? Whether you’re moving out of state or across the street, Moving.com has you covered. To find the best moving company to handle your upcoming move, check our extensive network of reputable and reliable movers. All relocation companies in our network are licensed and insured, so you can rest assured that your move will be in good hands. Good luck and happy moving!