Your family members may have been trying to convince you to move into an independent living community. But you’re not sure about the change. You’re comfortable and doing great staying at home, and have too many uncertainties about making the move. The following are some other reasons why you refuse independent living.
You Prefer Status Quo
You’re used to greetings from friendly neighbors, conversations with the boss of your favorite cafe or even the scent from the park just opposite your current home. You have spent years building relationships with people in your neighborhood and are sad to separate from them. Moving into an independent living community means you will lose this sense of familiarity you’ve enjoyed for the most part of your life. You might value this greater than the benefits of independent living that your family has been telling you about. But your family may misunderstand this and think you’re being stubborn.
It’s Scary
You never know what you’re gonna expect. You might have the best time of your life making full use of the amenities and joining fun activities organized by the community but the opposite could also happen. It’s this uncertainty that’s keeping you at bay. Furthermore, you don’t want to part with the house and possessions you value because they form a big part of your life. A new journey can be scary and you aren’t ready to embark on one yet.
It Doesn’t Match Your Personality
Perhaps you prefer to live with familiar people. You’re not a fan of big crowds and can be slow to warm up to people. Having to live with strangers is intimidating and is tiring, especially at your age. You just don’t have the extra energy to develop new relationships.
As you grow older, you might also be doubtful of who to trust. Even with the best professional care available in independent living, it’s not easy to trust people you’ve just met. And if you have a preference for living alone, you know it’s going to be hard adjusting to the atmosphere in the independent living community. That’s why you rather stay put.
You’re Afraid of Loneliness
Moving to independent living might mean losing connection with your family members. You’re afraid that they will eventually drift off and forget about you. Or worse, you think they’re trying to abandon you. You don’t want to be excluded from your family members’ lives so you’re hesitant about moving. Adding on, you are not sure if you can make new friends with people in the independent living community. You could end up being lonely in an unfamiliar setting and that’s unhealthy.
It’s About the Money
Financial expenses could be the main reason holding you back. Maybe you like the idea of independent living but can’t afford it or don’t want your children to spend extra expenses. You don’t want to become a financial burden for your family members.
You Want Freedom
You enjoy your usual routine and prefer to have the freedom to do anything you want. You are under the impression that moving to independent living means you lose control over your life. Your privacy might be interrupted and you’ll have to adhere to rules in the community.
