Tips & Articles

Peace of Mind for Seniors on the Move 

A new Creston-based business is offering solutions to relocating seniors.  Home Matters owner Diane Furlong says that moves for seniors can be very complicated, because there are so many things to consider.

“Often seniors may be overwhelmed, and feel they have limited options.  They might not have relatives nearby that can help and the situation can become more complicated if they have delayed taking steps because they don’t know where to begin.”

Diane started Home Matters as a way to put her considerable organizational talents to work for seniors.  Her background is in sales and customer service at the management level, and she is adept at staying calm in stressful situations.

Just the idea of moving can be stressful for many seniors and their families.  Often they need to move because of health issues, or because their current home is too large.  Home Matters services are wide ranging.  They include the very practical, such as packing and unpacking, sorting household items and communicating with utility companies.  But Diane is also sensitive to the emotional and physical demands of such a big change.

“A move often means leaving behind a lifetime of memories in the family home.  It can be like having your whole life flash before your eyes,” she says.  “Seniors are my favourite group to work with.  I respect their values, and appreciate the challenges that they face. Each situation is unique.”

Diane suggests that you get started as early as possible with the downsizing process.  “I often ask clients to jump start the process by doing a simple exercise.  Try removing a few of your least favourite items from each room and placing them in a box.  You may be surprised to find that, after a few days, you may not recall which items you placed in that box!”  Diane can help you look at the situation before you list your home.  “By doing this you will have more options for removing items you no longer need. “

Home Matters manages moves for seniors in Creston, Cranbrook, the East Shore of Kootenay Lake, Nelson, New Denver and Kaslo.  Diane can be contacted by phone at (250) 402-0084, or email at homematters@telus.net.