12 million Americans over 65 reside alone, with 61 percent of them wishing to remain in their own homes. Because of their wish to maintain at home, transitioning into an independent living community can be a frightening or stressful experience. Developing a plan for your relocation can make the adjustment simpler and help you integrate more quickly into your new community. Take a look at these five tips for relocating to an independent living community that will help!
Review the Leasing Agreement Carefully
Senior living leasing agreements are usually lengthy with legal jargon, so it’s critical to read them thoroughly. Make sure you’re aware of what you’re consenting to. You’d want a clear picture of the monetary obligations as well as the T&Cs that come with living in the community. The agreement should specify precisely what services the team will and will not provide.
Establish a Moving Schedule
Develop a moving schedule to guarantee that you complete all of your tasks during the relocation. Confirm your move-in dates so you can organize movers and understand how much time you have to complete your tasks. Additionally, if you will be selling your house, you will need to factor in the time it will take to sell. Write down a checklist with chores you need to do, such as updating your postal address or modifying your driver’s license, and the due dates for each chore.
Scale Back on Your Personal Effects
Start by understanding what your new living arrangements entail. Furnished units are available in certain independent living communities. If you pick an unfurnished unit, double-check the room measurements to make sure your existing furniture will fit.
Consider the little objects that take up a lot of room. Look through your housewares, decorations, linens, clothing, toiletries, and electrical items to see what you can cut down on. Keeping your effects to an adequate minimum makes the transition easier and allows you to settle into your new residence with less baggage.
Personalize Your Space
Feeling acquainted with your new home will help you adjust to your new surroundings. It might be difficult to say goodbye to your former home, but customizing your new senior living residence will help you to feel at ease! Personalize your new home by hanging up beloved family photos and decorations, plus some cozy touches like soft blankets and pillows to make your new space feel warm, inviting, and uniquely yours!
Actively Engage in the Community
Once you’ve settled in, start taking advantage of the independent living community’s fantastic activities and amenities. Begin by strolling or driving about the community grounds to get a feel for the neighborhood. Look for scheduled activities or entertainment events that you can join. If you encounter your neighbors outside, you should make an effort to introduce yourself so you can feel more integrated into the community. This will make the transition feel less difficult and lonesome. You should definitely also go out into the town and explore all the shops, eateries, green spaces, and area attractions it has to offer! Take it one step at a time and your relocation to an independent living community will be smooth!
