Note: 2/3 of all adult children expect to help their parents move…30% of seniors over 69 move to be closer to family or friends. If you are the adult children, what have you done to prepare yourselves and/or them for this move? 

The thought process about moving for a senior is difficult, but there are ways to approach the subject and glean information about what might work for your parents by simply asking some questions. I have assisted seniors who have said “I am going to die in this house” and something changes i.e., health problems, death of a friend, spouse, etc. Bringing things to their attention over time helps the transition become easier for all. Start the conversations early by asking questions. 

How do you feel about John and Sue moving? How did they handle the downsizing? (This helps them think about how they might do it differently and/or tell you how they might do it differently.) These questions help them formulate their feelings and gives you valuable information long before the topic comes up for them. But, it’s a start.

Did you know that one in four older adults experiences a fall each year? Many of these injuries are preventable with the right home features in place.

The most common causes of falls include:

🚫 Poor lighting                🚫 Slippery floors

🚫 Cluttered walkways     🚫 Loose rugs and uneven surfaces

If you’re planning to age in place, you’ll need a home with features such as:

🚿 Low- or no-threshold showers to eliminate the need to step over a tub edge

🛁 Grab bars and non-slip flooring in bathrooms

💡 Improved lighting in hallways, stairways, and entryways

📦 Clutter-free pathways & secured cords or rugs

🚪 Lever-style door handles & wider doorways for easier mobility

🏠 No-step entries and main-level living (bedroom, bath, laundry all on one floor)

🔔 Smart technology, like fall detectors or voice-activated lighting, for added peace of mind

Your home should be a place of comfort—not a source of risk.

Parents, Families and Real Estate: You're the Key

When selling a parent's home, differing views on pricing, timing and emotional attachment to the property can put a strain on a family’s relationships. While some see the home as a cherished space filled with memories, others might view it primarily as an asset to sell. 

Family members can also clash over how to handle the home sale, from pricing to marketing decisions. Establishing clear decision-making processes and effective lines of communication up front will help reduce conflict and allow each person to feel that their voice is being heard. Active listening, setting boundaries and creating a structure that helps find compromise can be critical in managing conflicts that might lead to resentment.

While the sale of a parent's home can put stress on family relationships, addressing emotions and communicating openly can help minimize that strain. With mutual respect, proper support—and your objective guidance and expertise—families can successfully navigate this transition together.