After retirement, what next? The transition in the later stages of life can be challenging and even stressful, to say the least. Moving to assisted living is an exciting experience that offers you the best opportunity to enjoy the next chapter of your life.
According to the American Health Care Association, assisted living communities serve over a million seniors. The older we get, the more care and support we need, which is why it becomes a necessity to consider moving to an assisted living community.
Let's explore some of the best tips for organizing to facilitate a smooth transition.
Once you decide to move to a senior living community, begin organizing early. Senior transition planning should involve a few key steps, such as:
Take a tour of the assisted living community, or ask for specific details about the living arrangements. This measure can help you develop senior relocation tips that work to your advantage.
We often get too attached to our stuff, which makes letting go very hard. Decluttering involves identifying what you still use and what you need to discard.
Decluttering strategically also involves:
Hire a professional to help you decide your needs in your new living environment. You can also review the assisted living programs available in the community to understand the essential items.
Embrace the challenge of moving with the right mindset. This involves understanding the process of decluttering for seniors by taking an inventory of your current belongings.
One of the crucial tips for organizing is to prioritize functionality. Focus on singling out practical items that will serve your needs in the new living space.
You can start by packing what is essential first. Doing so ensures that nothing important gets left behind.
Create a list of the items as you pack and tick them off during the moving process. For instance, track items such as furniture and ensure their sizes fit the new space. Try to keep decorative items to a minimum, as they may cause overcrowding or pose an additional logistics burden.
According to the Population Reference Bureau, approximately 40% of seniors meet their mobility needs due to the aid of assistive devices. Many of these devices are available in assisted living communities, so you don't have to carry yours.
Assisted living move organization can be hectic, so get as much help as possible. Involve family and friends in the planning process to make it easier. Your friends can also help you decide what to keep or discard.
Additionally, friends and family members can provide emotional support if the process becomes too overwhelming. You can also use the opportunity to give some of your stuff to the people you care about.
Having friends and family members help you declutter and downsize can also provide closure when you must leave behind sentimental items. Engage your loved ones in the decision-making process to help you make some of the tough decisions.
A reputable assisted living community will provide floor plans for your new apartment. You and your loved one can schedule a community tour to understand the space available and explore various amenities.
Assisted living communities already have furniture items and other key essentials for seniors. So, what you may need to move with are:
You may also bring end tables, chairs, and comfortable sofas. Feel free to ask about whatever else you need to transition to the community seamlessly. For example, some senior living communities accept pets.
Assisted living communities aim to create supportive and caring environments for seniors. The move to senior living is thus one of the best decisions you can make for yourself or your loved one.
But how can you handle the moving process? Here are the steps you need to take on moving day:
You don't have to hire movers or get a professional organizer if you plan efficiently for the move. However, get help in advance to ensure you have a chance to review the credentials of the movers.
No one wants to stay away from their home or their loved ones. But as we age, our needs become more complex and may pose an unfair burden to those very dear to us. Assisted living communities are home-like environments with the services and personalized care we need to enjoy life post-retirement.
Here are a few signs that may indicate you need to consider moving to assisted living:
You should also consider assisted living if you find yourself being unable to safely or comfortably live alone. Moving to senior living allows you to transition to a friendly community of peers. Ultimately, you make new connections and participate in social activities.
The above tips for organizing can help you declutter and downsize as you prepare for the next stage of life. Planning your move will reduce anxiety and excite you about living in a new community.
Campbell Place Assisted Living is a top-notch community offering personalized care and many amenities. From yoga classes and outdoor walks to comfortable, spacious apartments, we offer the best environment you or your loved one can call home.
Contact us today to schedule a tour of our community in Bellefontaine, OH.