Relocating elderly parents abroad can be an exciting but challenging experience for anyone. When elderly parents are the ones making the big move, extra planning and support are required to ensure the transition goes smoothly. Here are some tips to help your parents successfully settle into their new home abroad:
Research and Choose the Destination Carefully
The first step is deciding on the best country for your parents’ needs and preferences. Factors to consider include climate, cost of living, healthcare system, expat community, language, ease of travel to visit family back home, and more. Do thorough research on locations that seem like a good fit. Ideally, it would be best to visit the top choices before your parents move there. This will allow you to get a feel for daily life, scope out neighbourhoods, and look at senior housing options. Make sure to get your parents’ input throughout the process so they feel comfortable with the final selection.
Arrange Appropriate Housing
Finding the right home is paramount. Look into retirement communities, senior apartments, condos, or single-family homes that meet your parents’ physical abilities and lifestyle preferences. If they need assistance with daily activities, a facility with care services is a good option. Schedule virtual or in-person tours of promising housing choices before they move. If your parents aren’t able to visit in advance, consider arranging short-term accommodations like a furnished rental or serviced apartment when they first arrive, so you have time to help them choose a permanent home.
Establish Medical Care When Relocating Elderly Parents Abroad
Having continuous access to quality healthcare is especially important for seniors. Research English-speaking doctors, specialists, hospitals, and pharmacies in your parents’ new location. Look into health insurance requirements and costs for expat retirees. If your parents have existing conditions needing ongoing treatment, talk to their current providers about referring them to new doctors abroad. Have medical records transferred and bring at least a 3 month supply of prescriptions. You can hire a medical escort for the flight to assist with medications and any health issues arising mid-travel.
Ship Necessities Ahead of Time
Going through customs can be tiring for older travellers. Make it easier by shipping essentials like medications, medical equipment, and speciality food items in advance. You can also ship sentimental belongings and furniture your parents want in their new home right away. Just be sure to insure packages and properly document the contents. A door-to-door international moving company can handle logistics like customs clearance, storage, and final delivery.
Offer Emotional Support
Leaving home and family is difficult no matter how exciting a move can be. Your parents will experience mixed emotions. Providing empathy and reassurance When relocating elderly parents to a new country will help them manage anxiety and encourage optimism. Talk through any concerns they have and answer questions as best you can. Keep communication open as the moving date nears and for a period of adjustment after the relocation. Schedule regular virtual or in-person visits. Introduce them to expat groups and activities where they can make new friends. Your ongoing emotional support will help your parents thrive in their new homeland.
Relocating abroad opens up a whole new chapter in life. With careful planning and help from loved ones, the challenges of moving can be minimized so older adults can fully enjoy their new surroundings. Use these tips to assist your parents every step of the way for a smooth transition. The effort you put into setting up their new home will provide priceless peace of mind.
