how to move a disabled person to another state

2 min read 07-02-2025

how to move a disabled person to another state

Moving a disabled person to another state presents unique challenges that require careful planning and coordination. This guide outlines the essential steps to ensure a smooth and safe relocation. It's crucial to remember that every individual's needs are unique, so adapt this plan to your specific circumstances.

Assessing Needs and Resources

Before you begin, thoroughly assess the individual's needs and available resources. This includes:

1. Medical Needs:

Current medical providers: Identify current doctors, therapists, and other healthcare professionals. Secure their contact information and medical records. Begin searching for equivalent services in the new state well in advance.
Medications: Obtain sufficient medication for the entire move and the initial settling-in period. Confirm that the new state's pharmacies can fill prescriptions.
Medical equipment: Determine if any specialized equipment (wheelchairs, oxygen tanks, etc.) needs to be transported and whether it complies with regulations in the new state.
Insurance: Understand your insurance coverage in the new state. Contact your insurer to ensure seamless transition and clarify potential changes in coverage.

2. Support Systems:

Caregivers: If the individual requires assistance with daily tasks, arrange for caregivers in the new state. This might involve hiring professional caregivers or relying on family and friends.
Social support: Identify existing social networks and explore ways to connect with new support systems in the destination state. Consider joining relevant support groups or organizations.
Transportation: Plan transportation for the move, considering the individual's mobility limitations. This could involve hiring a specialized medical transport service or adapting a personal vehicle.

Planning the Move

With a clear understanding of needs and resources, start planning the logistical aspects of the move:

3. Choosing a New Home:

Accessibility: Prioritize accessibility features in your home search. Consider factors like ramps, wider doorways, accessible bathrooms, and proximity to necessary services.
Proximity to healthcare: Choose a location near medical facilities, hospitals, and specialists.
Transportation access: Select a location with convenient access to public transportation or other forms of transportation suitable for the individual's needs.

4. Legal and Administrative Tasks:

Changing addresses: Update all relevant addresses, including insurance providers, banks, and government agencies.
Driver's license and vehicle registration: Ensure compliance with the new state's regulations.
Voter registration: Register to vote in your new state.
Disability benefits: Contact the relevant agencies to update your address and confirm the continuation of benefits.

Executing the Move

The execution phase requires meticulous coordination and attention to detail:

5. Transportation and Logistics:

Professional movers: Consider hiring professional movers with experience handling specialized equipment or individuals with disabilities.
Packing and unpacking: Pack efficiently and label boxes clearly. Prioritize essential items and keep them easily accessible.
Travel arrangements: Plan travel arrangements to minimize stress and ensure comfort during the journey.

6. Settling In:

Establishing new routines: Help the individual establish new routines in the new environment to promote a sense of normalcy.
Connecting with new resources: Connect with the relevant support services and organizations in the new state.
Ongoing support: Provide ongoing emotional and practical support to facilitate adaptation.

Finding Resources

Numerous resources are available to assist with relocating a disabled individual:

State disability services: Contact your state's disability services agency for information and support.
National organizations: Organizations like the National Disability Rights Network provide valuable resources and guidance.
Support groups: Connect with support groups and online communities for peer-to-peer support and information sharing.

Moving a disabled person to another state is a significant undertaking. However, with meticulous planning, collaboration, and access to the right resources, the transition can be successful and beneficial. Remember to involve the individual in the planning process to ensure their wishes and preferences are prioritized. Always consult with relevant professionals for personalized guidance.