Brenda LyleHOMETOWN NEWS

Reader question:  How do I move my elderly mother from another state?

Answer:  The moderate climate and tax advantages make Florida a popular state for retirement. According to the Florida Assisted Living Association, Florida’s 65+ population will double in the next 20 years. Planning ahead will help make your mother’s move easier.

Money matters

Your mom’s financial situation is extremely important. Central Florida is a very expensive rental market — including 55+ living.  The average one-bedroom apartment is over $1200 per month.  The average monthly Social Security check is $1390, so seniors relying on Social Security will use almost all their resources on housing!  For low-income seniors seeking affordable housing through HUD subsidies, the few available apartments have long waitlists. On the other hand, seniors seeking retirement communities or independent living will find many options –at an average of $4000/month.

Care facility

If your mother needs to move into some type of care facility, you will need to find a suitable location, obtain a physician certification form, and arrange to transport her. If Medicaid is needed, please know that a person needs to be a Florida resident before applying.

Realtors & Moving

If your mom wants to purchase a home, the real estate profession has specialists for seniors.  These individuals understand senior’s needs and can navigate the unique challenges of the retirement home search.

As for the physical move, consider help from the National Association of Senior Move Managers (nasmm.org).  This group specializes in moving seniors. Members across the U.S. can help seniors downsize, plan estate sales, sell the property, pack up treasures and move to the new home.

Arrival

Give some thought to the transportation options at your mother’s new location, especially if she is no longer driving.  And if her Medicare health plan is specific to one region, she may need to change it once she gets settled.

Moving a parent from another state can be tricky. Luckily, One Senior Place has free resources to help!  Call 321-751-6771 to schedule your free consultation, or visit OneSeniorPlace.com.

 

One Senior Place is a marketplace for resources and provider of information, advice, care and on-site services for seniors and their families. Questions for this column are answered by professionals in nursing, social work, care management and in-home care. To submit a question, send an email to askOSP@OneSeniorPlace.com or visit One Senior Place, The Experts in Aging at OneSeniorPlace.com.

Brenda Lyle is a Certified Care Manager for One Senior Place, Greater Orlando.