Once you’ve decided to move yourself or a loved one into a senior living community, the next step is planning the move. With a bit of thoughtful preparation, you can reduce stress and help ensure a smooth, comfortable transition into your new home.
Plan Ahead
Use these tips as you get ready to move so you can settle in quickly and confidently in your new home, as well as save time and start enjoying your carefree retirement lifestyle!
Moving Checklist:
- Create a timeline and a written plan. The first step is making a timeline for everything that needs to be done. Work backward from your move-in date, considering how much time to allocate to each task. It’s helpful to keep a binder to store important information for your move, including notes, to-do lists and deadlines, so that nothing gets lost in the packing and moving.
- Determine what’s moving with you. Look at the floor plan and measurements of your new assisted living apartment to determine which larger items will fit. Although downsizing your belongings isn’t always easy, many residents enjoy not having to clean or maintain a larger home. Allow plenty of time to make decisions and to sort and organize your belongings.
- Look ahead. Having plenty of help as you move can make it easier to think more objectively as you organize your belongings. Also, starting with items that don’t have sentimental value can facilitate the process. Try to stay positive and focus on the benefits of your new home — a comfortable space designed to support your needs now and in the future. It can be fun to imagine how you’ll arrange your new space and display the belongings that mean the most to you.
- Start your new chapter. To begin feeling comfortable in your new community, consider asking your sales counselor to introduce you to associates and residents, or join them for a meal. You may also want to attend a community event before your move as a great way to meet some of your future neighbors. By the time moving day arrives, you’ll already feel more at home.