You’ve done your research, taken your tours, and finally found the best Independent Living community for your retirement lifestyle. Now it’s time to get ready to move into your new home.
If you’re like most people, you know moving includes much more than simply packing and unpacking boxes. It takes time, energy, and a positive attitude to get through the process as smoothly as possible.
However, many older adults face certain challenges that can make adjusting to new surroundings a little more stressful. Read these 6 tips on how to make moving to a senior living community easier, so you can start your next chapter on the right foot.
1. Remind yourself it’s OK to have mixed emotions
Moving to senior living is exciting, but it’s still a big life change. It’s normal to feel mixed emotions throughout the process, and sometimes you might feel sad or anxious. Just remember that any negative emotions are likely the result of uncertainty about the future. After all, it’s tough to be the new kid on the block, even during retirement.
The truth is, many older adults genuinely enjoy living in retirement communities like ours at Friendship Village, and wish they had moved sooner. Whenever you feel nervous, take a moment to think about all the incredible ways your life will change in senior living: no more home maintenance, plenty of amenities and activities, new friends, and a smart plan for the future.
2. Enjoy the community before you move in
Many communities welcome new residents by giving them access to most on-site activities, events, and services and amenities before they move in. This provides you with a variety of opportunities to get to know your new neighbors and surroundings at your own pace. You can start experiencing everything your community offers right away or take things more slowly. By the time you move in, you’ll already have friends and know your way around.
While you’re exploring the community, don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation or ask a fellow resident how to maximize your experience. It might surprise you how simple conversations lead to incredible friendships.
3. Make a solid plan with small steps
By breaking down your overall goal into smaller, manageable tasks, it becomes easier to prioritize and achieve each step of the process. In fact, studies show that taking small steps leading to large goals helps keep you motivated, allows for more flexibility when unexpected challenges arise, and leads to a greater sense of accomplishment.
If you’re having trouble breaking down the process of moving and feel overwhelmed, consider reaching out to a Senior Move Manager®. These moving experts have had specialized training and resources that can make nearly every dimension of your move to Independent Living much less stressful.
4. Prepare for moving day
Preparing to move to a senior living community the day before can help you keep a positive attitude and stay organized. While there might be a lot on your mind the night before you move, it’s best to get a good night’s sleep. Waking up well rested will help you stay positive and give you more energy throughout the day.
It could take a few days to unpack your belongings. If there are certain items you know you’ll want or need right away – such as medications, toiletries, and chargers for electronic devices – put them in an overnight bag or special box so you can find them quickly. You may want to also consider adding in a change of clothes and pajamas, just in case you don’t unpack them on moving day.
5. Personalize your home and ask for help from your community
Personalizing your home can be a fun and enjoyable process. It allows you to express your style and organize your home just the way you like. It’s also a wonderful way to bond with family and friends as you work together to create a beautiful home.
At Friendship Village, you can also put in work requests to have our maintenance team help you get settled into your home as you unpack and organize your belongings. We’ll instantly transform your space by hanging curtains, pictures and artwork, so you don’t have to hassle with a hammer and nails.
6. Invite people over when you’re ready
One of the best parts of moving to a senior living community like ours at Friendship Village is that each residence includes biweekly housekeeping and weekly flat laundry services. When you’re ready to invite your family and friends over, you’ll be able to tidy up in a flash.
They’ll delight in seeing your newly decorated home and get to experience your vibrant community. Consider inviting your loved ones over for a meal in an on-site dining venue, so you can still enjoy family dinners at your place … with no time-consuming preparation or cleanup.
Still Searching for the Best Senior Living Communities in the St. Louis Area?
Friendship Village has been setting the standard for outstanding senior living in Greater St. Louis for more than 40 years. We feature two beautiful retirement communities in Sunset Hills and Chesterfield, each filled with friendly residents and a world of opportunities steps from your front door. Contact our team online to arrange a personal tour of each community to learn which one is right for you.