Home is where the heart is, but for people with disabilities, it’s also where comfort and accessibility should be.
One of the most stressful events in life is moving, and it can be considerably more difficult for those with disabilities.
Relocating isn't just about packing up belongings and finding a new place to live; it's about checking that the new home is accessible.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 61 million Americans, or about 1 in 4 adults, live with a disability.
Moving might be quite challenging for many of them due to mobility limitations and other health-related challenges.
Disability Moving Assistance isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity.
A survey conducted by the National Disability Rights Network revealed that 43% of people with disabilities reported challenges in securing housing that meets their accessibility needs.
This highlights the importance of choosing the right moving services.
People with disabilities may also face financial difficulties when moving, as many live on fixed incomes.
This makes the already difficult process of relocating much more complicated, which is why it is so important that disabled people have access to affordable moving assistance for disabled.
In this blog, we’ll cover the essential moving tips for people with disabilities, how to hire specialized moving services, and the resources available for disability relocation assistance.
After all, moving should be a fresh start, not an additional burden.
How to Move with a Disability
Moving with a disability requires careful planning. Here’s a breakdown of key steps for a stress-free transition:
Create an Accessible Moving Plan
Start by developing a detailed plan that addresses every aspect of your move, from packing to settling in.
Check whether your new home has the right features to accommodate your needs, such as accessible entrances and wide hallways.
Hire Specialized Moving Services
When moving with a disability, you should hire movers who are trained to assist people with special needs.
Companies that offer specialized moving for people with disabilities have the tools and resources to provide a smooth experience.
Disability Moving Assistance typically includes:
Packing and Unpacking: Moving professionals can help you carefully pack sensitive medical equipment, furniture, and personal items.
Heavy Lifting: If you have limited mobility, moving companies will take care of the heavy lifting.
Disability Relocation Assistance: Movers can help you set up your new home, which makes sure accessibility features are in place.
Check Financial Assistance for Your Move
One of the biggest obstacles when moving with a disability is the cost.
Many people with disabilities are on fixed incomes, which makes moving expenses a significant challenge.
However, there are several options for affordable moving assistance for disabled individuals.
Government Assistance: The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offers various grants and subsidies to individuals with disabilities to help cover relocation costs.
Charitable Organizations: Several nonprofit organizations offer moving assistance and financial support to disabled individuals.
For example, the United Way or local churches may have programs specifically for disability relocation services.
Veterans Affairs: The VA provides funding for accessible home modifications for disabled veterans, which can include help with moving to a more suitable location.
Pack Efficiently with Assistance
Packing is a major part of the moving process. Still, it can become particularly tricky when you're managing medical equipment or other specialized items.
One of the best advice for moving help for disabled individuals is to start the packing process early.
Pack Essentials First: Label boxes clearly and separately pack items you'll need immediately, such as medical supplies or personal hygiene products.
Downsize if Possible: Take this opportunity to declutter and donate items you no longer need. This will make your move less stressful and more affordable.
Arrange for Accessible Transportation
If you’re relocating long-distance or need to travel, be sure that the transportation methods are accessible to you.
Whether it's an adapted vehicle for a wheelchair or a specific arrangement to transport medical equipment, be sure that everything is planned in advance.
Key Considerations for Accessible Moving Services
When you are looking for moving services, especially if you require special accommodations, there are a few important factors to keep in mind:
Trained Professionals: Always make sure the moving company has experience handling sensitive needs. This could mean having movers who are trained in safely handling wheelchairs or walkers.
Equipment: Look for companies that offer accessible moving equipment, such as ramps, lifts, and customized vehicles.
Wheelchair-accessible moving services are often equipped to handle these needs.
Personalized Plans: A quality moving service will offer a customized moving plan that takes into account the individual's specific requirements.
Specialized Moving for People with Disabilities
Certain moving companies focus exclusively on specialized moving for people with disabilities.
These services include:
Personalized Assessment: A moving company that specializes in disability relocation sends a consultant to assess your home and provide a detailed plan.
Expert Assistance: Trained movers will know how to handle specialized equipment like hospital beds, wheelchairs, oxygen tanks, and other mobility devices.
Flexible Timelines: Since moving with a disability may require additional time, some companies offer more flexible scheduling to meet the unique needs of disabled clients.
Moving Help for Disabled - Additional Resources
While professional moving companies can provide essential services, other resources are available that can help disabled individuals move.
This includes:
Volunteers: Many community organizations provide volunteer labor to assist with packing, moving, and unloading for people with disabilities.
State Agencies: Depending on your state, there may be programs that offer free or low-cost moving services for individuals with disabilities.
Disability Advocacy Groups: Groups like the National Disability Rights Network (NDRN) can help connect individuals with organizations that offer moving assistance tailored to people with disabilities.
