Moving with a disability is daunting but not impossible. With the right combination of planning, assistance, care, and preparation, you can turn it into a pleasant experience, setting the beginning of your new life.
Changing properties is challenging, even for young and healthy individuals, so do not hesitate to contact a reputable removals company or family and friends to assist you with the move.
To make the moving process easier, you can follow advice from people in similar positions who have already gone through the entire thing.
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Plan Ahead and Communicate
Moving with a disability requires careful planning and effective communication to ensure a smooth and accessible transition.
You can start by identifying specific disability-related needs and requirements. Consider factors such as mobility aids, medical equipment and accessibility features needed for comfort and safety.
Communicate your needs to the transportation team, whether they are professional removals or friends and family. Discuss any concerns or special requirements you may have during the moving process, such as the need for additional assistance or a specific schedule.
Travelling with a disability is hard, so if you are moving to a remote location, do not hesitate to request breaks along the way.
Conduct a Home Accessibility Assessment
It is important to conduct a thorough accessibility assessment before moving into your new home.
Assess the layout of your new space and identify potential barriers and obstacles. Check the doorways, hallways and entrances to ensure they are wide enough to accommodate mobility aids and equipment.
Ensure accessible facilities such as ramps, handrails and accessible bathrooms. If changes need to be made, consult an expert, such as an occupational therapist or accessibility specialist, to complete all the necessary changes before you move in.
Conducting an accessibility assessment of your home can help you proactively address issues and make adjustments to create a safe and inclusive living environment.
Packing and Organising
Consider your disability and associated special needs when packing and organising your belongings. Start by sorting and removing items that are no longer needed or will serve no purpose in your new home.
Prioritise packing essential things you will need as soon as you arrive at your new home, such as medicines, care items and assistive devices. Categories and label your items to make the unpacking process more manageable.
Consider enlisting the help of a friend, family member or professional organiser to help with the packing and organising process. Many moving house specialists offer packing and unpacking services along with transportation and will be happy to organise your belongings based on your preference.
Transportation and Travel Arrangements
When people with disabilities travel, it is crucial to consider transportation and travel arrangements to ensure a smooth and accessible journey.
Research options, such as wheelchair-accessible taxis and public transportation with accessible facilities. Plan travel routes in advance, considering entrances, elevators and ramps at airports, train stations and bus terminals.
If you require additional assistance, communicate your needs to transportation and airline companies to ensure a seamless travel experience.
When booking accommodations, choose ones that meet accessibility requirements, such as hotels with accessible rooms or vacation rentals with accessible amenities.
Look into the route you will be taking and decide on a few stops with places with food, drinks, and a toilet where you can relax a bit.
Accessibility Modifications in the New Home
Creating an accessible living environment for people with disabilities is an important part of the moving process.
Conduct a thorough assessment of your new home and identify any necessary accessibility modifications. Consider wheelchair ramps, grab bars, wide doors and adjustable countertops.
Consult with professionals such as accessibility specialists and occupational therapists to ensure retrofits are tailored to specific needs.
Coordinate with contractors and builders to plan for necessary improvements before or immediately after the move to ensure your comfort at your new place.
Coordinate Support Networks
Contact local disability organisations and community centres to connect with people who can share similar experiences and offer valuable guidance and support.
Join support groups and online forums to communicate with others moving with a disability and get ideas and advice. Connect with others via Facebook or other social media platforms.
Inform health care providers about your move and ask for recommendations for health care professionals and support services in your new location. Coordinate with local disability service providers to ensure continuity of care and access to necessary resources.
Transfer Medical Records and Services
If you are moving with a disability, transferring your medical records and ensuring continuity of care in the new location is essential.
Contact your healthcare provider and inform them about the move. Request a copy of your medical records and have them transferred to your new healthcare provider.
Research and identify medical specialists and therapists in your new area who can meet your specific needs.
Coordinate with your insurance company to make sure coverage is in place and consider any necessary adjustments to your medical plan. Proactively transfer medical records and establish health services in the new community to provide uninterrupted healthcare and support.
Establish Support Systems in the New Community
Find out about disability support services, organisations or advocacy groups in your new area. Connect with these networks to access resources, information and social support.
Attend local community events, support group meetings or disability-focused workshops to meet people who can share your experiences. Join online forums and social media groups to connect with others facing similar issues.
Establishing a support system in your new community will give you a sense of belonging, strengthen connections and ensure you have a network you can rely on during the transition.
Conclusion
Moving for people with disabilities requires careful planning, coordination and support.
Remember to be clear about your needs so that the moving process can meet your specific requirements.
Take time to research and plan accessible transportation, accommodation and health services. Coordinate with health care providers and support networks to ensure continuity of care and build a strong support system in your new area.
Seize this opportunity for a fresh start and focus on creating an inclusive and collaborative environment that promotes independence and well-being.