How to Make the Transition to Senior Living with Ease

Moving out of your family home and transitioning into a senior living community may be one of the most difficult decisions you can make. It’s always hard to say goodbye to a chapter in your life. You may have cherished memories associated with your current home, or valuable possessions you don’t want to lose access to. These feelings are one hundred percent natural and to be expected when you are entering a new stage of your life.

One thing to keep in mind is that you are not alone. Sixteen percent of the U.S. population is represented by people age 65 and older, and many of them are going through the same experience as you. The numbers are growing, too. By 2040, the senior population in the U.S. is expected to rise to 21.6%. That’s why senior-related industries are growing and enhancing their offerings, aiming to provide you with the best their location can offer.

You may have anxiety or uncertainty regarding making the transition to senior living. However, this transition comes with many exciting, new things to look forward to. This is your opportunity to make new friends, focus on what makes you happy, and find opportunities to perhaps reinvent yourself. While it may be difficult to say goodbye to your home, it can be exciting and even fun to look ahead into the next chapter of your life.

If you are planning to transition to a senior living community, you can do so slowly and optimistically, so you can adjust to your new lifestyle with ease.

It’s Best to Start with an Open Mind

Most U.S. adults choose to downsize after retirement, especially when their children aren’t living with them anymore. Family homes can be large and require too much upkeep, including cleaning the rooms, maintaining the yard, and keeping up with belongings. Downsizing allows you to prioritize the things that are most valuable and useful to you. A smaller living space can also make it easier to find things and live in a more organized fashion.

Of course, transitioning to a smaller space in a new community is easier said than done. There are ways to slowly ease into this process to help you adjust to your new life. It can help if you begin the transition to senior living as early as possible.

Know Your Options

There are many senior retirement community options from which to choose, including assisted living, independent living, and memory care. In the end, all that matters is that it provides an enriching environment that suits your desires and lifestyle.

You and your family can start the conversation by looking into the communities that are available in your area. Start by researching websites and reading about the community’s programs and amenities. Understand that some communities have certain waiting periods, so exploring early can get you on a list, making the transition quicker the moment you decide to go.

Take a Tour First

Narrow down the communities that appeal to you and schedule a visit. This is your chance to really explore. Take a look at the apartments and try to get a feel for one of them as your new home. You may want rooms that are well-lit, or common areas filled with natural lighting, or bathrooms equipped with grab bars and non-slip floors. Take note of the temperature, and if the room offers enough space for your belongings.

Other than the apartments, check the communal areas and the amenities the community offers. Meet the other community members and ask them about their experience with the community. Take notice if the team members are friendly and adept at addressing your every concern. If they have a calendar of events, see if they offer programs that match your skills, hobbies, and interests. If you feel that this community values you and offers many ways to enrich your life, it’s time to put your name down the list.

It’s Okay to Feel Emotional About Moving

Your old home carries so many important memories for you and your family, and it’s understandable to feel the challenges of parting with it. Soon, you’ll be living in a new home, learning new routines and getting used to a new way of live. It’s alright to take your time and process these emotions. In time, you will gradually feel yourself opening up to the joy of learning new things, the thrill of friendly new encounters, and the fun of creating a new home in a new place.

At this stage, having someone help you with your move is advantageous. Let your children help out in keeping track of the important things, such as bills, utilities, and hiring movers. This way, your transition to senior living can go as smoothly as possible.

Take Time to Get Acclimated

Adjusting to your new home will take time. Once you have moved into your community, try to appreciate all the things in it — the surroundings, the friendly people, the fresh, new environment, and the team ready to serve you. Take a walk around the neighborhood on your first day. Greet your neighbors, learn their names, shake their hands, and stay for a few moments to chat. Have a meal with your family before they leave. Once you are left on your own, hold on to your familiar routines, such as reading your favorite book or watching your favorite show before bedtime.

Rest easy and know that tomorrow begins anew. After you awaken, take a morning stroll and prepare a healthy breakfast. A quick whisk of eggs for your omelet while listening to your favorite music on the radio might do the trick. Go out and socialize with your community. Should you want help with anything, ask the community’s team members.

Before you know it, you will have adjusted with ease to your new home.

Make Your Home with Us at Monroe Village!

We take pride in our wealth of programs and services meant to enrich your life. With maintenance-free living and your overall wellness in mind, we have created programs that allow you to live your best life. Our fabulous amenities range from a vibrant Club Room and a grand community auditorium to the chic, casual dining at our Village Bistro, helmed by our culinary team. Stay in shape using our fitness center and pool and enroll in our LivWell programming to strengthen your holistic health. With onsite team members and security available 24 hours a day, you’ll always be safe and secure. Talk to us today and learn more.