The process of moving is never easy, but for those living with a disability the challenges take on a whole new meaning. However, if handled thoughtfully, this issue doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Even though the steps are pretty much the same for everybody, when you add the stressor of a disability, you have to approach the move from a slightly different angle, and you need a deeper understanding of what it actually involves. To make the move as smooth as possible, take the following house moving tips into consideration and ease your way into the process:
1. Make a Plan
This tip goes without saying, and it applies to everyone. When you’re dealing with a disability, being organized is even more critical. You have to make sure you give yourself a couple of weeks to prepare a pre-move checklist, write down all the things you want to accomplish, and make a timeline of all your upcoming steps. You don’t have to set strict deadlines, but just get an idea of how to keep things in order. Some of the points you could write down are the following: declutter your home before packing up, pack every room separately and label each box, get rid of unused items, and have your house cleaned before moving out. If you can’t do the packing yourself, always ask for (and accept) help. Make sure to keep an ‘essential box’ that is easy to access even after you’ve packed everything, and store the rest of your belongings in a storage unit close to you until the whole moving process is finished.
2. Check for Accessibility Everywhere
The most essential step towards a comfortable and safe move for people with disabilities is ensuring accessibility in their new home. Hence, make sure you figure out the best and most secure ways to enter and exit your new place, especially if there is a wheelchair involved. Among the most important things you must check out are the width of doorways and hallways, whether there are ramps and, last but not least, countertop heights for easy use.
It is equally important to avoid any potential future hazards in your new home. Make sure there are no cables or wires, stairs, ledges, slippery surfaces or other obstacles that could be threatening to your safety.
3. Hire a Good Moving Company
Once again, this is advice for everybody who considers relocating as it makes your whole moving process easier and more stress-free. However, when moving with a disability it is highly important to find the BEST moving company, one that you can thoroughly rely on. Before you decide which company to go with, ask your friends and family for recommendations and do your research, because there are plenty of moving companies that have special offers for disabled individuals.
The movers must make the whole process easy and peaceful, as the nature of certain disabilities requires much more assistance than usual. Think about what kind of help you require and whether you need extra assistance with packing and unpacking. Without a doubt, a professional moving company with quality services is one of the most valuable components of a successful move.
4. Apply for Benefits
Living with a disability often leads to extra costs related to health services, medication, disability-specific aid and help with daily activities. Therefore, moving expenses for those who are already struggling financially can be daunting. If you don’t have the means or the physical capability to pack and to organize the moving process, don’t hesitate to apply for grants or look for financial help through disabled housing assistance programs, such as ADAPT, which promotes federal funding for people with disabilities and offers resources at the state and local levels throughout the country.
It is not easy for anyone to find a new home and to get used to it. The moving process is complex , but the final result can have a great effect on our overall wellbeing if it is handled carefully and thoughtfully. While we all need time and preparation to fully adapt, when you have a disability it can be even more problematic, but there are things you can do to make it easier. Follow the tips above for a smooth transition and enjoy the experience of a fresh start!
