Moving Tips for Seniors in Metro Vancouver
Moving later in life is a different experience than moving in your 30s. There is often more to sort through, more emotional weight attached to belongings, and more physical limitations to work around. With the right approach and the right help, it can be a positive transition.
Start Planning Early
For a major senior move — from a family home to a smaller apartment or a care facility — start planning 3–6 months in advance. This gives enough time to:
- Make thoughtful decisions about belongings without rushing
- Research and choose the right new home
- Arrange for the right level of moving help
- Handle administrative tasks (address changes, healthcare transfers)
Choosing the Right New Home
Accessibility is the most important factor for many seniors:
- Single level or elevator access — stairs become a significant barrier as mobility decreases
- Proximity to healthcare — close to a family doctor, pharmacy, and hospital
- Transportation — walkable neighbourhood or good transit access if driving is limited
- Proximity to family and support networks — being close to people who can help matters more as we age
Downsizing: Going Slowly
Most senior moves involve significant downsizing — from a family home of 30+ years to a smaller apartment. This is emotionally as well as physically demanding.
Go room by room, slowly. Do not try to sort through a lifetime of belongings in a weekend. Work through one room per week over several months.
Focus on what to keep, not what to discard. Asking "what do I want to take with me?" is less emotionally difficult than asking "what should I get rid of?"
Involve family. Family members can help with decisions about sentimental items and take things they want to keep. This is often easier than donating or discarding items with family history.
Donate to meaningful causes. Donating to a cause the senior cares about — a local charity, a community organization, a place of worship — makes letting go of belongings feel purposeful rather than wasteful.
Choosing the Right Moving Help
Full-service moving company. For most senior moves, a full-service company that handles packing, moving, and unpacking is worth the extra cost. It significantly reduces physical and emotional strain.
Senior move managers. A senior move manager is a professional who specializes in helping older adults transition to a new home. They coordinate the entire move, help with downsizing decisions, and provide emotional support. The Canadian Association of Move Managers (CAMM) has a directory at camm.ca.
Family involvement. Family members can provide invaluable support — but be careful about taking over decisions. The senior should remain in control of what happens to their belongings.
On Moving Day
- Arrange for a family member or trusted friend to be present throughout the day
- Keep the senior's essential medications, documents, and comfort items with them (not in the moving truck)
- Set up the bedroom and bathroom first at the new address so the senior has a comfortable, functional space immediately
- Do not rush — a senior move may take longer than a standard move, and that is okay
After the Move
The adjustment period after a major move can be difficult for seniors. Regular visits from family, connection to community activities, and patience go a long way.
Ready to Move?
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