Smooth Moves: The Ultimate Guide to Relocating Comfortably With a Disability
Relocating can be both exciting and challenging—but for individuals with disabilities, the process often involves additional layers of planning, accessibility considerations, and emotional preparation. This guide provides practical, compassionate strategies to ensure your move is efficient, safe, and empowering. Whether you’re transitioning to a new apartment, an accessible home, or an assisted living space, these tips are designed to make each step manageable and stress-free.
TL;DR
- Plan early and evaluate accessibility needs before signing leases.
- Create a team of trusted helpers, from movers to occupational therapists.
- Document medications, assistive equipment, and emergency contacts.
- Label boxes by room and accessibility priority.
- Check out appliance warranties to protect key home systems from costly repairs after moving.
Planning Your Move
☐ Schedule an accessibility evaluation of your new home.
☐ Contact your healthcare provider for moving-related medical advice.
☐ Research accessible movers (e.g., companies with wheelchair-friendly trucks).
☐ Notify your utility providers of accessibility needs (priority reconnection, ramp access).
☐ Set up medical records transfer if you’re changing providers.
Tip: Visit HUD’s housing search tool for verified accessible housing listings.
Preparing an Accessible Environment
Accessibility begins before the first box is unpacked. Prioritize safety and functionality.
Task
Purpose
Accessibility Benefit
Measure thresholds and doorways
Ensure all entryways and passages accommodate wheelchairs or mobility devices
Prevents obstruction and supports safe, independent movement
Install grab bars in bathrooms and high-traffic areas
Provide stability during transfers and movement
Reduces fall risk and increases confidence
Arrange furniture to allow wide, unobstructed paths
Maintain open flow throughout the home
Enables easy navigation and clear access routes
Use color contrast or tactile markers
Assist individuals with low vision in orientation
Improves visibility and spatial awareness
Test lighting and outlet reachability
Confirm switches and outlets are usable from seated or standing positions
Enhances comfort and promotes independent living
Explore HomeAdvisor’s accessibility remodeling resources for professional modification support.
Equipment and Medication Management
Moving days can be hectic—keep medical and mobility essentials close.
- Pack a “health essentials” bag (medications, chargers, batteries).
- Label assistive devices with your name and contact info.
- Backup medical equipment instructions digitally.
- Inform movers about fragile or sensitive medical gear.
- Store temperature-sensitive items (like insulin) in a cooler.
For equipment maintenance post-move, Medline’s guide on mobility safety offers valuable insight.
Financial and Legal Considerations
Moving costs can add up quickly. Look into disability-specific financial supports and home protections.
Key Resources:
- SSA Ticket to Work Program — Job and income transition help.
- National Disability Institute — Financial planning for independent living.
- Disability Rights Legal Center — Legal aid for housing and discrimination issues.
Investing in Home Protection
Once you’ve settled in, it’s worth exploring appliance warranty options to safeguard your home systems. A solid home warranty can help cover the cost of repairs or replacements for key appliances—especially those that impact comfort or accessibility, such as HVAC systems, lifts, or kitchen equipment. Look for a plan that also covers removal of defective units and issues caused by improper installation, so you’re not left managing unexpected breakdowns alone.
Community Support and Well-Being
Staying connected after a move helps ease the emotional transition and maintain independence.
Ways to Stay Supported:
- Join local disability advocacy groups through ADAPT.
- Contact your regional Center for Independent Living.
- Use Nextdoor to find neighbors who can help with errands or recommendations.
- Explore virtual fitness or support sessions through Move United.
Glossary
Accessible Home: A residence designed to accommodate mobility, sensory, or cognitive disabilities.
Assistive Device: Equipment that improves daily living, such as a wheelchair, hearing aid, or lift chair.
Grab Bars: Sturdy wall-mounted bars that provide stability in bathrooms or hallways.
Home Warranty: A service contract that covers repairs or replacements for major home systems or appliances.
Universal Design: Architectural design that accommodates all people, regardless of ability or age.
FAQ
Q: How early should I start planning my move?
A: Ideally, begin three to six months before your move to arrange accessibility modifications and medical logistics.
Q: What should I do if the new home isn’t fully accessible?
A: Temporary ramps, door widening, and portable grab bars can serve as interim solutions while permanent adjustments are made.
Q: Are there grants available for accessible modifications?
A: Yes. Programs like Rebuilding Together and local housing authorities often offer home modification grants.
Q: How can I transport mobility equipment safely?
A: Use professional movers experienced in handling assistive devices or rent protective cases for powered wheelchairs.
A successful move goes beyond logistics—it’s about building a home where comfort, safety, and independence thrive. With thoughtful preparation, the right community support, and accessible design choices, your new space can meet both your physical needs and emotional well-being. Done right, moving becomes less about transition and more about empowerment, confidence, and lasting peace of mind.
Note: the resources listed are country specific. You may have to find the same in Your location to what has been mentioned here.
Thank you to Lance Cody Walker for another brilliant article.
A Note From Ben:
My goal is to help you build a life of health and freedom. This blog is supported by two resources I personally use and trust to achieve that mission:
- My ASEA Business: Supporting my family's wellness from the inside out.
- "Success in 10 Steps": The framework I use for building a successful business from home.
You can learn more about ASEA here and "Success in 10 Steps" ebook here.
