We get it; it can be very difficult for retirees or seniors to move to a senior living community or retirement home. There is a lot of planning involved, in-depth research and emotional stresses during this process.
However, planning for it can make a move to a facility like the arbors at shelburne (or the facility you are moving in to) a lot easier, alleviating stress while embracing the new opportunities. This comprehensive guide can help you move to a senior living community, and make it as stress-free as possible.
Your Comprehensive Guide To Moving To A Senior Living Community
Determine Your Needs & Wants
Are you still young at heart and demand independence? Or do you need some additional support for your lifestyle? One of the most amazing things about top-tier retirement homes is that they cater to the needs and wants of their residents.
But the only way they can do that is what you tell them you need. Be honest with yourself, understand your limitations and determine what you want for your senior years. You can be sure that the retirement home will support you.
Research & Visit The Retirement Home
Knowing where you’re going to live will have a profound impact on your future. That’s why we encourage you to research and visit all the retirement homes you’re interested in.
Make sure you consider the following: the quality of service and customer, reviews and references from other seniors, the cost of living there, and the amenities and support services available.
Schedule a visit to the location, investigate and examine the rooms and facilities, and speak with the lifestyle coordinator to get as much information about the community as possible. Some organisations such as the Clover Group make a concerted effort to curate a community of seniors who are able to support each other and socialise in a healthy way. A good retirement home will provide a welcoming, comfortable atmosphere, helping seniors to settle into their new surroundings with ease.
Speak With Family
Throughout the early stages of your decision-making and planning, you should consult and discuss the move with your family.
Not only will they provide advice and guidance on the best course of action for yourself and your well-being, but they’ll also open up other avenues and possibilities that you might not notice. It could be anything from choosing one retirement home or another or helping you determine your lifestyle needs. Having your family by your side is crucial during your lifestyle transition.
Plan Your Move Ahead Of Time
No one likes last-minute moves – so avoid them by planning your move months ahead of time. Here is a simple way to streamline this process:
- Keep the items that you want or need
- Declutter the stuff that you can’t take with you or is just taking up room
- Ask family and friends to help you with the early stages of your move
- Speak to moving companies about your plans and schedule them in advance
- Assist the moving process by packing up items before the movers arrive
- Talk with the retirement home about your plans, so they are aware of what you’re doing on the day
Prepare For The Nerves
It’s very typical to feel nervous about any move. Many seniors have admitted that they feel vulnerable, particularly since they are moving into a place with its own rules. There is also the fact that seniors feel lost and uncomfortable after moving out of a home that they’ve lived in for decades.
So the best way to combat these nerves is to prepare for them. Don’t think of the move as a problem, but more as an avenue for an opportunity, the chance to embrace something new and exciting that will make your life brighter and better.
Having family and friends around can be helpful to support you during it. Rest assured that this is a process that may not go perfectly every step of the way, but it’s an adventure that can change your life for the better!
Embrace Your New Lifestyle!
If you are open to new experiences and opportunities, it will be easier to embrace your move into a retirement community. Take your time to get adjusted to the new surroundings, ask the home for help and participate in any new activities or services they offer. You’ll become part of the community while making your new friends and connections before you know it.
We hope that this guide helps you move into a new senior living community. Remember, this is a hard transition to go through, so it’s okay to take your time to prepare for it properly. We’re sure you’ll have a smooth move with our help.
