Transitioning to a 55+ senior living community can be an exciting and perhaps daunting prospect. To make the process as seamless as possible, it’s important to plan for every contingency. To ensure a well-planned, coordinated move to your new home, check out this list of best practices to help you navigate the move-in process with ease.
Enlist a Senior Moving Company
Ask your leasing agent to recommend local businesses that specialize in later life moves. You can also visit the National Association of Senior Move Managers’ website to find a list of resources in your area. NASMM members specialize in helping older adults and their families navigate the process of organizing, downsizing and relocating. They also offer services, including house cleaning, auctions/estate sales, selecting a realtor and preparing your home for prospective buyers. Utilizing a senior mover can reduce stress and save you money – a win-win situation!
Take Inventory of Your Home
Having a detailed plan can streamline the downsizing process. Start by taking inventory of your belongings and decide which items you can let go. Determine if selling or donating is the best option and create separate piles for each category; be mindful when shopping for new household items. Contact the leasing expert at your new community and request a floor plan of your residence to help determine what pieces will fit.
Ask Family & Friends for Help
Whether you need assistance paring down and packing your belongings or finding the right senior move manager for your needs, don’t hesitate to reach out to your friends and family for help. Transitioning to an independent living community is a major life change for everyone, so it can be comforting for loved ones to take an active role in the downsizing process.
Timing is Everything
Timing can be a critical factor in planning a move to senior living. What if your house doesn’t sell right away? What if it sells too quickly? Take advantage of flexible reservation options and ask your leasing agent about any special programs they may offer new residents who need additional time to sell their home or downsize their belongings. Having a guarantee that the apartment or cottage you selected will be available when you are ready to move in, can offer greater peace of mind and add an extra layer of confidence to your planning process.
Thinking about downsizing or selling your home? Call The Avenues Crofton Park (720-799-0915) today to speak with an experienced leasing agent who can help guide you through the downsizing process and talk about decisions that come with coordinating a move.