10 Safety Moving Tips for People with Disabilities

Moving is a roller coaster of emotions. On the one hand, it is the start of a new adventure. You are going to meet new people and explore a new location. However, moving is also stressful. Not only are you leaving behind your old house, but you also have to deal with unexpected challenges.

Moving is also financially draining. People may end up spending thousands of dollars without careful planning. Plus, relocating takes a lot of time. People need time figuring out things in their new place even if they move a block away.

Moving can become complicated when there are other factors in play. For example, people with disabilities have to keep track of several things when they relocate. Fortunately, there are some tips to help potential movers relocate to their new place.

1. Think about your stuff

Discarding your old things can improve your moving experience. Make three piles for each kind of belongings. Divide your possessions into a trash pile, a keep pile, or a storage pile. Storage is an excellent option for movers who do not want to let go of their belongings but do not have enough space. Therefore, renting self-storage units can make all the difference. However, the storage unit should offer amenities according to the location. For example, Conroe, Texas, gets storms and tornadoes during summers. Therefore, you should store your belongings in a climate-controlled facility. So, all storage conroe tx should have complete amenities, such as humidity control and air conditioning.

2. Create a checklist

Moving can mean keeping track of several things at once. The process is a chore that can make even the calmest person lose their cool. The months of scheduling, packing, and moving can seem overwhelming. The best way to deal with relocation is by breaking it down into smaller parts. Starting months before the move is the best policy for a smooth and fuss-free move. There are several online services to help people plan their relocation.

3. Prepare a home inventor

You have to think about everything you have when you move. Furthermore, you also have to keep your valuable things and vital documents safe. Things can mysteriously go missing during a move. So, you have to double-check if everything made it to your new palace. A moving inventory list can help you document your contents and list notable valuables. Make the inventory after you get rid of all the extra stuff to help you remember what should be in your new home.

4. Assess your new place

Your new home should not only be the right fit for you, but it must also be accessible for people with disabilities. The doorways should be large enough to accommodate wheelchairs. Similarly, the doors must be easy to open with full grip strength levers. You can follow a home accessibility checklist, which covers ramps, parking, bathrooms, and bedrooms. Some places may not pass the test, so users will have to refit their houses. But, refitting a space to make it disabled-friendly can cost a lot of money and waste precious time. Fortunately, some nonprofits offer assistance and funds to people struggling to make their space accessible.

5. Double-check your benefits and services

Moving to a different state can affect your disability services and state benefits. Therefore, check with your insurance provider about their terms and conditions. The relocation will also affect your insurance rates and terms. You should inform your state services about your upcoming move and update your policy. People who use Social Security Disability Insurance do not have to worry about their insurance. They only have to notify the Social Security Administration about their new living conditions.

6. Know your rights

People moving into rentals should be aware of their rights before they relocate. They should understand that they can modify the living space according to their needs. The Fair Housing Act prevents landlords from discriminating based on disabilities. You can also request modifications to accommodate your needs. Your landlord can refuse the alterations if they create unsuitable living conditions for potential tenants. Keep in mind that you will have to provide proof of disability and describe the changes when you move.

7. Locate health care providers in the new area

Emergencies are unforeseeable. However, we can prepare for such incidents. Locate all primary care service providers and emergency services near your new house. Display the list in a central position so everyone can see it in a hurry. Refill all prescriptions before you move to save yourself the stress and worry of looking for medicines.

8. Hire a moving service

Most people wax poetic about doing things yourself. However, it is better to hire someone to do the work for you. Planning a relocation is stressful, and a moving partner can take half of the stress away. Professional moving services offer experienced help to minimize damage while handling your belongings. Furthermore, professional movers are fast and efficient. You will not have to wait long for your stuff to arrive and won’t have to bribe your friends to do the heavy lifting. Best of all, there is no hassle and risk.

9. Prepare an essentials box

Sometimes, settling into a place is more stressful than the move. The first night in a new home can make you feel uneasy and tired. So, pack an essentials bag for the first week. The bag should have items that can get you through the days without unpacking other crates. Add clothes, toiletries, books, and bedsheets to the box.

10. Organize when you unpack

There will be several things to do when you go into your new home. Take a deep breath and relax before you try to tackle everything at once. Unpack your stuff as you go, so you do not panic. It will also help you avoid accidents. Start with your essentials and keep going according to the most vital things. Tackle your kitchen first and then move on to your bedroom and other things.

Conclusion

Relocating is an experience, but all adventures need careful planning. Take extra care to make yourself comfortable during the whole process. Begin early to keep track of things for a smooth transition. It is not impossible to move with a disability. However, it needs a combination of planning, help, and attention, just like any successful relocation. Instead of allowing your relocation to overwhelm you, arrange it into a list of stages and little chores.