Make A Fresh Start With Less Stress.
We’ve put together some ideas that can help you prepare. Use these tips as you get ready to start your new chapter, so you can settle in quickly and confidently, and start enjoying your carefree retirement lifestyle right away.
- Create a plan and timeline. Determine your move-in date and work backwards, creating a timeline for everything that needs to be done, allocating time for each task on your list. You may find it helpful to use a binder to store all the important information for your move, including to-do lists, deadlines and notes. The binder can also contain all of your important papers, contact information and receipts so that nothing gets lost in the shuffle of packing and moving.
- Choose what to bring with you. Use the floor plan and measurements from your new assisted living apartment to design a potential layout for your new space. Since you’re likely downsizing to a smaller space, agree on a process for sorting through your belongings. Although the idea of downsizing can be daunting, many retirees find that when they move into a smaller space, they appreciate the scaled-down lifestyle – not to mention the reduced cleaning and maintenance required for a larger home.
- Ask for help as you look to the future. Plan on enlisting help and allow plenty of time to sort, organize and make decisions about what you’re bringing to your new home. Having help as you move can make it easier to think more objectively as you organize your belongings. Try to keep your thoughts and conversations focused on the future, rather than dwelling on the past. By looking forward to the excitement of living in a new, comfortable space and incorporating your most treasured items, you can navigate the strong emotions that often accompany downsizing.
- Enjoy your fresh start. Rather than worrying about emptying every box, take breaks to get involved in your new community —introduce yourself to your new neighbors, enjoy a community event or join a fitness class. Even if you jump right into everything The Crossings has to offer, it will still take time to adjust. Be prepared, stay positive and have patience, which can help ease the transition as you begin this exciting next phase of your life.