Navigating the Transition: Tips for Adjusting to Senior Living

Making a move is ranked as one of life’s most significant changes—alongside events like getting married, changing jobs, or having a child. Arguably even more significant is making the move to a retirement community. The transition to senior living comes with a different set of dynamics, but on the other side of that move there are a whole new set of doors of opportunity open to residents. This move is not only physically demanding, but impacts mental and emotional well-being, too.

The good news is that much has been learned about making the transition to a retirement community an easier one. There is no magic answer to help make the move painless and easy, but we can share some important tips and tricks learned from experience—so that ideally you or your loved one can reach a new level of growth, independence and connection after making the big move.

Preparing for the Transition: Research and Select the Right Community

Step one to making a successful move is being confident in that decision, and this process starts with researching and selecting the right community for you. Senior living is far from a “one size fits all,” and with many options available to you, it is great to do some preliminary research and self-exploration. Does the community offer amenities and services that you desire? What is the breakdown of costs? Perhaps most importantly—do you see yourself living there and being happy? What do you want to get out of a community?

If you are overwhelmed by this step in the process, reach out to a Residency Counselor at Eastcastle Place so that they can help guide you through the process. Check out some of our previous blogs such as this one for some tips as well: Life Plan Communities: Pros And Cons.

It is insightful to visit multiple communities to compare and contrast, though be sure to schedule those visits on separate days. Allow yourself enough time to process all the information shared and to take it all in.

Do not tackle this process alone. It can be helpful to bring another trusted set of eyes and ears as you explore communities, whether that is a family member or friend. Consult your loved ones about your decision, and this will help you through the rest of the move process as well.

Make the New Space Feel Like Home

It can be helpful to think of your move to a senior living community as an opportunity to truly define what items in your life are most important to you. Ask yourself what those “non-negotiable” items are that will earn a prime spot on your credenza or bookshelf in your new space.

Incorporating items of personal value to you in your new space will help ease the transition. Earmark those family photos, favorite decorations, and prized possessions for the move.

If you enjoy the interior design process, lean into creating your own warm and welcoming space. If the thought of furniture layouts and placement of items scares you, perhaps seek help from a trusted friend or professional. Ensuring your new space is comfortable and functional is a worthwhile investment.

Foster New Connections and Social Engagement

You may be moving into a community where friends of yours are already established, or perhaps you will not know anyone in your new home. Either way, it is important to make an effort to establish some social connections at your retirement community. Know your level of comfort in social settings and ease into this at your own pace.

Communities like Eastcastle Place may have an established group of residents whose job is to help welcome new residents to the community. They can be an incredible resource when it comes to adjusting to your new lifestyle. From showing you around the campus to dinner invitations, the welcoming ambassadors at Eastcastle Place play a pivotal role in helping new residents acclimate.

Staying socially engaged has many health benefits, so be sure to find those opportunities of interest to you and take advantage of them. Test out various groups and you will be sure to find others with common pursuits. This may open many new doors for you. With such a wide variety of social activities, clubs, and events at Eastcastle Place, you will be sure to find something you enjoy while creating meaningful new bonds along the way.

Provide Emotional Support

The journey from making the decision to move all the way through the process of settling into your new community is undoubtedly going to stir up a variety of emotions, and it is important to acknowledge the emotional toll the transition might take. Ongoing support will make an incredible difference in your adjustment.

Seek out those who are encouraging and supportive of your endeavors throughout the move process. If you are a family member supporting a loved one making a transition, be certain to check in regularly to see how they are feeling throughout the adjustment period. It is important to acknowledge your own emotions surrounding the move as well.

Maintain regular communication with all of your supportive people throughout the move process. This will help maintain your confidence and keep all parties involved on the same page.

Collaborate With Staff

If you or a loved one is transitioning to a more supportive environment where care will be provided, be sure to share your preferences and routines with staff members. This will help to ensure personalized care and start your new journey off on the right foot. Even if you are transitioning to an independent environment, letting the staff know a bit about you can help them better support the adjustment to your new home and ensure a greater level of comfort.

Building a rapport with staff members at your new home can help you stay informed and get your questions answered so that you will know who to seek out if any additional support is needed. Some communities like Eastcastle Place may offer special events or programs like a “new resident orientation” or “meet and greet” to gain a better understanding of the staffing structure and the resources available to you. Make sure to take advantage of these opportunities to stay informed.

Set Realistic Expectations

Adjusting to senior living takes time, so it is important to extend yourself or your loved one some grace and to set realistic expectations for all aspects of the transition. Both the physical and emotional portions of the move will take some time to adjust to your “new normal.”

Rest assured, you have made a great decision to seek out a community environment where you can live your life to its fullest in this next chapter. Be patient with yourself and with others, and seek out the support you need to help launch this next endeavor successfully. Lean into others and know that you are not alone. Other residents have gone through the same experience, and at Eastcastle Place, they are ready and willing to help guide you and make the transition go smoothly.

In conclusion, each person’s journey to their future home is unique, and there are a wide variety of resources and people who are ready to support you. Plan ahead and seek assistance to help ensure a smooth transition. Take the first step toward a vibrant and worry-free lifestyle at Eastcastle Place. Contact us today to learn more or schedule a tour of our beautiful community. We welcome the opportunity to meet with you, be a resource as you explore your options, and show you firsthand the life-enhancing opportunities that await at Eastcastle Place.