Change at any age can be tough to accept for anyone. Furthermore, uprooting your entire life and rightsizing to independent living can be a massive decision that comes with its own stressors. For older adults, moving can take a huge toll on both their mental and physical health. The process may trigger sadness, grief, or even trauma. Here are some tips that you can consider if you are looking to right size and move to independent living.
Creating a Comfortable Environment
Spruce up your new living space to your personal liking so you can immediately feel right at home upon settling down. If you are not able to move all your personal items by yourself, do not hesitate to seek help from friends and family. Allocate a small space in the new place with your favorite books, furniture, photos, and other mementos that will help you to feel safe and welcomed. You may be tempted to buy new furniture but sticking to your old décor can feel comforting.
Being Grounded
Rightsizing or packing up all your belongings can be exhausting. It may even lead to arguments or disagreements with your family members. You may wish to explain to your loved ones why some items are particularly important to you as they hold sentimental value. You also need to stay grounded and pick out only the belongings that really make sense to hold on to. Taking too much along to the new place may just add more stress. Think about the amount of space that you will enjoy at the new place and get rid of items that you can easily replace.
Seeking Help
You can seek help from your friends and family to help you with the rightsizing process. If there is really no one to assist, you can always inquire with the retirement community that you are heading to. Many retirement communities offer senior living concierge services that can help arrange the logistics facilities necessary to help you relocate with ease. Most senior apartment homes also come fully furnished and equipped with kitchen appliances and modern fixtures. Thus, you do not need to unnecessarily bring too many of your own.
Staying Positive
Stay positive throughout the whole process. Bear in mind that you are moving to a retirement community because you know you are going to greatly benefit from the programs offered there. You will have more opportunities for socializing and leisure to further improve your quality of life.
Managing Expectations
Many of us are creatures of habit. We are sometimes afraid of changes as we are unsure of what to expect. The first few days or weeks of your move can be a challenge but you can better manage your expectations by finding out more about the senior living program that you are signing up for. Learn more about the amenities, programs, and activities that you stand to enjoy. This will let you better manage your daily schedule and be certain of what you can look forward to.
Keep Smiling
Things may go wrong. Do not forget to keep smiling. Several inconveniences may come your way throughout the move but remember that they are not there to stay. Enjoy the process and be prepared for a more fun and exciting adventure that awaits.
