Moving can be difficult at the best of times, but moving when you have a disability often requires more work and additional care. Disabled people move for a variety of reasons, such as relocating closer to family, work opportunities, or necessary services. Fortunately, you can find ways to minimize your stress and workload as you get ready. By following these tips, you’ll be able to prepare for your move without creating unnecessary risk to your health and comfort.
Start the Process Early
Everyone can benefit from early planning for a move, but disabled people might truly need the extra time. Packing often takes longer than you expect, and it can be harder on your body and mind than you imagine at the beginning. In addition, you may require additional time to search for accessible housing or secure services close to your new place. Give yourself at least a few months to prepare or longer if possible. That extra time will let you follow a reasonable pace to the day of the move.
Evaluate Accessible Housing Options
Before you sign a lease or a purchase contract, take the time to evaluate the accessibilityThe design of products, devices, services, or environments to be usable by people with disabilities.... of the home. For the use of mobility devices like walkers or wheelchairs, be sure to measure doors, walkways, and countertop heights. If you don’t find housing that meets your needs, consider homes that might work with a few updates. You may be able to find programs that will give you a big tax break on accessibility retrofits or even pay for the costs entirely.
Consider Transportation Needs
Even if you plan to spend most of your time at home, viable transportation options are crucial to help you get out. If you usually drive, consider the layout of the yard, parking lot, or garage for ease of getting in and out of a car. For people who don’t or can’t drive, public transportation is key. Consider your options, including time spent getting to the stop and the cost of a ticket. Research disability-friendly public transit or driving services for personalized service.
Research Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities
Most people with disabilities have greater healthcare needs than the average person, so you may need to find a good hospital and other healthcare facilities. Look on your insurance company’s website for local clinics, hospitals, and providers that are convenient for you to access. Read ratings and reviews and get recommendations from people who live in the area. If possible, schedule a consultation with doctors in the area so you can put a plan in place before you move.
Begin Transitioning Services
Everyone has to make a list of services they will need to start or stop when they move, and your list might be a bit longer. Talk to your doctor and any disability service providers about creating a transition plan. Transitioning might involve making sure that you have enough medications until you can see your new providers, transferring your medical records to a new clinic, and setting up new accounts for services in your next location. Starting this process early can help you make sure you finish everything before you have to leave, with the confidence that your new home will be ready for you.
Choose an Experienced Moving Company
Moving is hard enough without having to load and unload boxes on your own, which highlights the benefit of hiring a moving company to help. When you look for trusted movers in your area, ask them about their experience moving disability equipment and mobility devices. You may not need to hire a company that specializes in moving people with disabilities, but you should take the time to vet each candidate. Choose the one that you feel is going to treat your belongings with the most respect.
Take Care With Medical Equipment
If you own a lot of specialized equipment that is very hard to replace, take extra care with it. Talk to your doctor or the equipment manufacturer about the best ways to prepare equipment for storage or transportation. Arrange for proper packing materials and consider custom packaging options for custom or expensive devices. If you truly cannot replace it, consider moving it yourself or asking a trusted friend or family member to help you.
Prioritize Essentials
Before you finalize your packing strategy, be sure to leave out everything you will need to help you get through the transportation and transition into your new home. Make a list of essentials you will need, including:
- Clothing
- Toiletries
- Medications
- Assistive devices
- Basic household goods, such as toilet paper and snacks
Consider putting these items into your luggage for easier loading and unloading into a vehicle.
Ask for Help
Many disabled people are wary of asking for help because they don’t want to feel like a burden on family and friends. It’s important to keep in mind that moving is a challenging task for almost everyone, especially people who face limits on their time and energy to prepare. When you are handling most of the move on your own, you should feel free to ask for assistance in packing, finding services, or other tasks. If you cannot rely on your network for help, see if your doctor or hospital can recommend services to assist.
Moving as a person with a disability takes a little extra work, but it can be worth it. By taking your time to prepare and making sure that you have everything you will need, you can complete the transition in comfort.