Should You Move After the Loss of a Loved One?

Although staying in the space shared with a beloved partner is a comfort to some, others can find it too hard. When that’s the case, it may make sense to move out and find a new space where you can get a fresh start. If you’re unsure, there are things you can consider that will help you determine whether you should stay in your home, or find a new space. Meridian Counseling presents a look at some of the ways you can determine what’s best for your situation:

 What Can You Afford?

 One of the simplest and most practical questions to consider is whether or not you can afford to move. If you own your property, the profits from the sale may cover your new home entirely, particularly if you’re downsizing. Before you put your house up on the market, however, make sure you have all the documentation you’ll need to finalize the sale (mortgage loan info, title deed, etc.). A last-minute problem can put you into a difficult financial situation

 If you don’t already own your home, or if your house doesn’t have enough value to cover your move, thoroughly research your funding options. There are plenty of loans and grants available that might make it easier to afford. For example, there are loans that empower veterans to own their own homes. What’s more, these loans feature VA rates that can help them secure the money they need for their new home.

 Help When You Need It

 Whether you’re moving to a new home, an apartment, or an assisted living facility, you’ll want to consider hiring movers. This is a little extra cost that goes a long way. Though you may be tempted to do it yourself or ask friends and family, you can find affordable pros to get the job done much faster and with less stress. Do a little research and obtain quotes to find someone you can trust at your price point.

 Are You Ready?

 Give yourself a little bit of time before you decide to move. Frazer Consultants explains that if you make hasty decisions, you may wind up regretting it, even if it truly is what’s best. Fortunately, there are several proactive steps you can tackle in the meantime that will help clarify things for you.

 For example, you can purchase burial insurance for yourself. Managing a loved one’s death is difficult, and you can make that process easier on your survivors by covering the expenses of your own funeral. This helps you to process some of the feelings of fear and guilt that come with a big loss.

 Sifting, Sorting, and Supporting

 You can also take some time to sort your loved one’s things and figure out whether to keep, sell, or donate them. This is never an easy process, but it can be deeply cathartic. By organizing these items, you allow yourself to experience memories while making an important practical decision for yourself.

 This can be an emotional task, so consider asking a close loved one or a trusted friend to support you through it. This way you have someone to lean on if it gets too hard as well as to reminisce with.

 Finally, The Grief Recovery Method suggests joining a support group or seeing a counselor for a little while. Though you may be able to handle your sadness on your own, having a little extra support can make it a lot easier. There is no shame in turning to professional help, especially if it allows you the clarity you need to see how to move forward. 

 Once you’ve given yourself a chance to grieve, as well as look over your finances, you can make the best choice for your situation. If you decide to move, the change of pace and atmosphere will give you a fresh start for your future. You cannot replace the person you’ve lost, but you can find ways to live the life they’d want for you. 

If you need help during the grieving process, please contact Meridian Counseling today. Call (323) 332-9905 or email us at info@meridian-counseling.com.

 ****Written for Meridian Counseling by Kent Elliot. Ken is a retired architect with a passion for dogs, DIY, and universal design. After a stroke left him with mobility issues, he thought he would need to move out of his home and into an assisted living community. But, using his experience as an architect and with a little creativity, he was able to successfully remodel his family home instead. He created AtHomeAging.info to share what he’s learned.