Are you or a loved one moving to a retirement community?
Relocating to a retirement community can be a move that comes with lots of emotions, and is a situation that needs to be handled delicately.
Here are five tips on what you need to know when relocating to a retirement community.
1. Start the Discussion with Reflection
Talking to a loved one about this topic can be difficult in more than one way. It’s important to recognize that there is a lot of emotion that surrounds leaving a home. For many people, this may be the home they have lived in their entire adult life.
Use websites such as myLifeSite.net to research retirement communities. There are many different types of communities, so you’re sure to find one that is just perfect for you or your loved one.
2. Ask Questions
Many residential communities have set rules that you will want to know.
For example, some communities prohibit pets. Others might restrict younger guests from visiting for extended periods of time. Make sure that you or your loved one fully understand what it means to live in that given retirement community before signing any paperwork. You wouldn’t want there to be any surprises as you’re about to move in.
3. Take, donate or trash?
It’s time to downsize. As mature, older adults, people tend to have accumulated a lot of belongings during their lives.
Go from room to room and decide which items to take to the new property, which to donate, and which to discarded. Remember never to assume, what might look like trash to you might be a prized possession to someone else.
4. Avoid Stress and Stay Prepared
We all know when it comes to relocating, you need to be prepared and organized. Being prepared also creates free time to get excited about all of the amazing facilities and hobby-based activities that are available at your chosen retirement community. To help with the logistics of planning, use free online tools, and remember to color code and clearly label boxes.
5. It’s Time to Start a New Chapter
Retirement communities are known for their enjoyable activities, so why not try out some new activities in advance? From pools to tennis courts, and cooking clubs to fitness classes, it’s time to get active and to find new hobbies that interest you or your loved one.
You can see which activities are available in your local area online. For example, check out the local park district or senior center for lots of hobby-based group and programs.
Help With the Move
Our staff of movers can help get you to your new community. Let us assist you with the big move. Contact us to see how we can help serve you.