What to Consider Before Moving Near Family for Health Reasons

Moving closer to family for health-related reasons is a major life decision. While having loved ones nearby can provide comfort and support, uprooting your life also involves many factors to weigh. Consider the following before deciding to relocate near family due to medical needs.

Your Health Needs

Assess your current and future health needs realistically. How much hands-on care and assistance will you require from family on a daily or weekly basis? Be specific. Needing a ride to a doctor’s appointment once a month is far different than requiring help with bathing or meals every day. Understand the level of care you will need both now and as your health evolves so you can determine if your family can reasonably provide it.

Proximity to Healthcare

Evaluate your healthcare requirements. How often do you need to see doctors, specialists, or have treatments/procedures done? Being an hour versus five minutes from your medical providers can hugely impact your quality of life. Also, research the medical facilities and resources available near where your family resides. Ensure it meets your healthcare needs so you don’t have to travel far for quality care.

Home Health Care Options

Even with family nearby, you may need supplemental care from home health aides or agencies. Research options in the area you’re considering moving to determine availability and costs. If choices are limited, it may sway your decision to relocate. Having access to affordable quality care is essential.

Financial Impact

Calculate both the short and long-term financial impact of moving closer to family. Factors like real estate, cost of living, taxes, and healthcare expenses may be higher or lower. Consider if you need to sell your current home. Factor in costs like hiring a moving company, buying new furniture, or making home modifications. Understand the full financial implications so you can budget appropriately.

Your Support System

Take stock of your support system outside of family, like close friends and community connections. How much do you rely on them for companionship, help with errands/tasks, or emotional support? Leaving these support networks can significantly impact mental health and quality of life. Evaluate if moving is worth disrupting these relationships.

Lifestyle Factors

Beyond health needs, reflect on the lifestyle factors that impact your daily life satisfaction and purpose. These may include things like cultural or community connections, access to nature or green space, availability of preferred hobbies/activities, or proximity to amenities like libraries, senior centers, or places of worship. Make sure the area near your family can meet these needs.

Trying a Trial Run

If possible, spend an extended trial period living near family before fully relocating. This could involve renting an apartment for several weeks or months to experience day-to-day life in the new location. A trial run can help you determine if moving there will truly improve your quality of life long-term.

Travel

You may still need to travel for medical treatment once you have moved. In this case, you can consider working with a medical travel escort service. Qualified medical escorts can transport you via plane or ground transportation to receive care in another city and provide medical assistance during the journey.

Moving near family for health reasons is a deeply personal choice requiring careful thought and planning. Analyzing all factors will help you make the best decision for your unique situation and needs.