Seniors downsize for a variety of reasons. Some people find that the spacious home where they raised their children is no longer manageable, safe, or affordable. Others view retirement as a destination to be enjoyed to the fullest. Everyone has their own motivations, and they are all valid. Are you planning to downsize? To prevent some typical errors, consider your needs and desires. Here are some things to avoid while selecting and moving to your new senior living apartment in Montgomery County, TX.
Mistake 1: Not Considering Your Health and Personal Needs
For many seniors, downsizing into a smaller home is a common choice that can change everything. Yet, seniors who have health issues—or who have a family history of health issues—end up having to relocate once again soon after downsizing in order to access the proper care they need.
Examine your present and potential health before moving and consider whether downsizing to an independent living community could be the best option.
It’s not like moving into a nursing home, as many people believe. Residents reside in apartments in a community that offers assistance with personal care, meals, and medications. However, a large part of your freedom will be retained, as you can carry out tasks that you still prefer to manage by yourself. Before making the move, consider the best living option for you!
Mistake 2: Overpacking
We understand. Leaving behind your treasured possessions and well-loved furniture can be a hard thing to do. However, your new apartment will have all the amenities you require and more, and moving from a large house to a smaller living space means you should be selective about what you bring. This means donating and selling things like bulky furniture and heavy duty appliances. You can also consider leaving some things behind for your children, and keeping larger items that you can’t bear to part with in a storage unit.
Make sure you don’t overpack, as you could end up with an overcrowded room with little moving space! When in doubt, check with your community on the types of items they allow and advise against bringing them before packing. You can also count on the community’s housekeeping and maintenance service to keep everything in your personal space and common areas neat, clean, and in working order. This means you definitely don’t have to bring along heavy cleaning equipment or machinery.
Mistake 3: Bringing Only the Essentials
On the other hand, you shouldn’t just bring the essentials. You should also allow yourself to bring along some items that have special meaning to you, as they will provide you with a sense of familiarity and comfort as you transition into this new phase of life.
When moving to a senior living apartment, you’ll want to make a list of what you may need, and a few extra items that can help your new space feel like home. This could be a photo album, a few decorative pieces, and more.
In sum, just remember to be patient, thorough in your research, and honest about your needs versus wants. You’ll discover an easy route to a fulfilling retirement lifestyle with these tips!
