Moving Your Parents: What Families Need to Know

When aging parents mention the possibility of moving, it can stir up a mix of emotions—concern, relief, uncertainty, and sometimes guilt. For many adult children, especially those balancing kids, careers, and caregiving, helping parents relocate isn’t just a real estate decision. It’s a family transition.

Joy Loverde, bestselling author of The Complete Eldercare Planner and a nationally recognized eldercare expert, offers thoughtful insight into what families should expect when parents begin talking about a move. Below are key takeaways—along with real-world perspective from my work helping families navigate this process with clarity and compassion.

When a Parent Talks About Moving, It Usually Means More Than Downsizing

A parent bringing up a move is often a signal that something has changed. It might be physical limitations, memory concerns, isolation, or the simple reality that the home they love has become harder to manage.

Instead of jumping straight into logistics, start with curiosity. Gently ask:

• What’s prompting this thought?

• Is something feeling harder than it used to?

These conversations open the door to honesty—and help families avoid making assumptions.

Expect the Process to Start… Stop… and Start Again

One of the biggest surprises for families is that moving a parent is rarely a straight line.

Parents may feel ready one day and overwhelmed the next. This stop-and-start pattern is normal. Sorting through decades of memories, possessions, and emotions takes time. A slower pace doesn’t mean failure—it means your parent is processing a major life change.

Patience here can make all the difference.

This Isn’t Just a Move—It’s a Life Transition

Selling the house is only one piece of the puzzle.

Parents may need:

• New doctors and pharmacies

• Help understanding their new neighborhood

• Transportation options

• Social connections and routines

Families often underestimate how many small details matter. Supporting parents after the move is just as important as helping them get there.

Don’t Assume the Paperwork Is “Handled”

Many parents believe everything is organized—until someone actually opens the file box.

Before listing a home, it’s wise to review:

• Deeds and ownership documents

• Powers of attorney

• Wills or trusts

• Mortgage or lien information

Having clarity early prevents delays and stress later, especially if health issues arise unexpectedly.

Let Your Parents Stay in the Driver’s Seat

Moving represents loss: of independence, familiarity, neighbors, and routines.

Parents are far more likely to adjust well when they feel respected and involved. Even when adult children are helping heavily behind the scenes, allowing parents to make key decisions—location, layout, timing—preserves dignity and reduces resistance.

A move done for a parent instead of with them often leads to regret.

Stress Is Normal—But How You Handle It Matters

This process can be emotionally exhausting. Frustration, sibling tension, and time pressure are common.

What helps?

• Slowing down conversations when emotions run high

• Avoiding “This is how it’s going to be” statements

• Bringing in neutral, experienced professionals

The right support can defuse conflict and keep the focus on what matters most: your parent’s well-being.

Work With Professionals Who Understand Aging Transitions

Joy Loverde emphasizes the value of trusted resources during a parent’s move—and I couldn’t agree more.

An experienced real estate professional who understands aging, family dynamics, and multigenerational needs can:

• Anticipate roadblocks before they happen

• Coordinate with attorneys, lenders, and care professionals

• Reduce emotional and logistical overwhelm for the entire family

This isn’t just about selling a house. It’s about guiding a family through change with confidence.

Final Thoughts

Helping your parents move is one of the most meaningful—and challenging—roles you may ever take on. With the right mindset, patience, and support, it can also be a moment of connection, relief, and renewed peace of mind.

If you’re starting this conversation or feeling unsure about next steps, you don’t have to navigate it alone.

Source & Credit

This article is inspired by insights from Joy Loverde, bestselling author of The Complete Eldercare Planner, as shared through the Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®) program of the National Association of REALTORS®

2025-02 NAR SRES Moving Your Pa…