Transitioning to a senior living community marks the start of a new chapter. It can mean more socializing opportunities, fewer housekeeping duties, and all the amenities required at your fingertips.
But first, there is one major hurdle to cross — downsizing. It can be overwhelming to tackle decades’ worth of stuff, figure out what you can take with you, and get rid of the excess.
The good news is that it doesn’t have to be overwhelming to relocate to a smaller house. It can be a liberating experience with the right attitude and a game plan.
Here are five tips to consider before packing your bags and moving into a senior living community.
- Start Early to Keep Stress at Bay
The earlier you begin downsizing, the better. If you procrastinate for too long, the process will be more stressful than would otherwise be the case. Giving yourself time to downsize can help you avoid burnout and make better decisions.
A good approach is to begin six months to one year in advance of your move. You can devote 30 to 60 minutes to decluttering daily. Begin with low-emotion areas like the laundry room, pantry, or linen closet. And gradually work up to more sentimental things like photo collections or family heirlooms.
- Map Out Your New Space
You must consider the amount of space you’ll have in your senior living community. The odds are there’ll be less space than in your current home. That means you won’t be able to take everything with you, since the last thing you want is to start a new phase of your life by hoarding.
Take accurate measurements to ensure you have sufficient space for furniture and for things like walking aids or wheelchairs if needed.
- Level of Care You Need Now — And In the Future
Not all senior communities are the same. Some are geared toward independent living, some are for assisted living, and others offer skilled nursing. What will work best for you will depend on your current health status, what you need now, and what you may need in the future.
Here are some questions to ask yourself when trying to determine the required level of care:
- Do I need help with daily tasks like bathing, dressing, or medication?
- Are there additional care services provided by the community if my needs increase?
- Can levels of care be increased without the need to move to a new building?
Picking a community that can meet changing needs may spare you the hassle of having to move again in the future.
- Location and Accessibility
Where you are will influence the quality of your life. Close family and friends could mean more frequent visits and a larger support system. So, while you’ll likely make new friends, that doesn’t mean you won’t want to remain close to those you love and respect the most.
You also have to consider proximity to doctors, shopping, and recreation destinations. Consider nearness to medical centers and specialists, how easy it will be for loved ones to come to visit, and the availability of transportation to excursions and appointments.
Choosing the right location can keep you more connected to the people and resources you love and need most.
- Fees and Budget Planning
Senior living prices vary significantly depending on the community, location, and degree of services rendered. Knowing the cost of living before your move will provide future financial security. You can get this info by checking websites and making calls to the right people.
When looking at the expenses involved, consider monthly fees and what’s included, fees for extra care or services, contract types, and refund provisions in case you move away.
Depending on your situation, relocating to a senior living community can be the best option. Choosing a community with a strong reputation will increase the odds of an enjoyable experience in your new home.
