You’ll no doubt experience a range of emotions during your move to a senior living community, as you would with any move—and that’s expected. But it also can be exhausting. Add in the physical component of downsizing and there’s no wonder why so many of us feel a sense of apprehension ahead of a move. The good news is there are some actions you can take to alleviate stress during your transition. This includes seeking family support and communication, streamlining the downsizing process, and asking for additional help in the event you need it.
Family Support & Communication
During major life events, it’s often our closest family and friends that we turn to. However, don’t discount the power of connecting with others who have similar shared experiences.
Here are some ways to ensure you get the support you need during your move.
- Connect with family or friends prior to the move. Reaching out to family and friends about your intentions to move into a senior living community before committing to your move gives them time to process your situation and encourages further conversation. Think about how you approach each conversation, especially with adult children.
- Invite family and/or friends along on a community visit. If you have family or friends in the area where you’re exploring senior living options, then you may want to consider inviting them along on your senior living tours to help alleviate some stress. Some of your family and friends will no doubt appreciate being involved in the process with you.
- Find others who have had similar experiences. Older adults who are making the move to or who have already moved into senior living can be a great source of support. Ask the community that you’re considering moving into if they can help set up a meeting over coffee, tea, or perhaps a glass of wine, with a resident who has been through it.
Streamlining the Downsizing Process
Downsizing is a necessary part of moving from your current home into your new residence at a senior living community. The more time you give yourself for planning and preparation upfront, the more likely you can avoid additional stress during your actual move.
Here are some ways you can streamline the downsizing process.
- Review available floor plans. Use your floor plan as a guide for determining what you can realistically fit in each room. Get rid of any belongings that there isn’t room for.
- Make a list of your must-bring items. You likely have some possessions that hold special emotional value. Add these onto your short list of must-bring items for senior living.
- Rent a storage space for the uncertainties. There may be some items you don’t want to part ways with. Rent a storage space and spend a little time away from these possessions to determine if you miss them.
Don’t Hesitate to Ask for Additional Help
The moving process can be unpredictable, so be sure to ask for help when needed. It’s better to admit you need an extra hand ahead of time than it is to realize this later.
Here are some places you can reach out to for assistance.
- Check if your community offers moving support. It’s in your senior living community’s best interest to ensure you have a successful move. Most high-end senior living communities will offer some type of move-in support for incoming residents.
- Consider third-party options for moving assistance. Give yourself plenty of time to research and get estimates from moving companies to eliminate stress. Your new senior living community may also be able to provide you with moving assistance options.
- Don’t forget about friends and family. If you reached out to them about your move to senior living ahead of time, it’s possible they’ve already offered to help.
Stress Less at Harbour’s Edge
Moving into a senior living community doesn’t have to be overwhelming. This is especially true at Harbour’s Edge, a luxurious senior living community in scenic Delray Beach, Florida. From the moment you arrive at our community, you’ll have access to high-end services and amenities designed to make your life better, such as delicious dining options, a heated swimming pool and hot tub, personalized wellness programs, private transportation, and so much more.
In addition, every incoming resident to Harbour’s Edge has access to a move-in coordinator who will make your transition to our one-of-a-kind community that much easier. Our helpful reception services team can also answer any questions you might have about your new home.
Contact us to learn more about life at Harbour’s Edge.
