Making the decision to move to a Senior Living Community can be difficult. The choice 
can be met with sadness, uncertainty, and hesitance.
Moving at any age can be a big adjustment, but as people age and realize that they can no longer live on their own it can be hard to accept it may be time to leave their home. However, moving to a senior living community should also be met with optimism, curiosity and excitement as it represents an opportunity for new experiences. Many put off moving for as long as possible, but doing so can prolong the process when they finally do decide to move. Here are a few questions to help you decide when is the right time to move to a senior living community.
Can I take care of myself down the road?
Often times when older adults are still healthy, they make the decision that they would prefer to age in place. This could be a great option for some people but it is certainly not the best option for everyone. Many people have the belief that by moving to a senior living community they will be forfeiting their independence but that is not the case. Senior living communities are not nursing homes, Life Plan Communities like Collington are for those individuals who are still very independent, but require some help with daily activities. Residents are free to go off campus, they have their own apartment or villa and can continue to live the life they want.
Do I have a plan if I need help?
When considering moving to a senior living community it is common to initially look at it as a backup plan. People would rather make the decision to move after a life changing event like an illness or injury, however at that point it is usually too late. The process of finding the right senior living community takes time, financial planning and research. It is better to be 5 years too early than 5 minutes too late. Allow yourself the opportunity to select, not be forced to settle.
Would I like to be more social?
One of the biggest problems that those who age in place face is isolation. As they get older, they may no longer be able to drive themselves to activities or to visit friends and family. Being alone can lead to depression, cognitive decline, and heart disease. Loneliness alone can be enough to encourage some to move to a senior living community. Many communities, like Collington, offer a plethora of social activities, committees, clubs, trips, fitness groups and more. Having opportunities to socialize can help reduce stress and raise self-esteem.
Am I ready to move?
This is one question almost everyone asks themselves when thinking about moving, and the answer is almost always “no”. There will always be one more reason not to move. Finding reasons to stay put is easy, but folks who made the decision to move when they felt they weren’t fully ready say it was the best decision they’ve made. Most of them even say they wish they would have moved even sooner. Don’t let fear of something knew postpone an exciting next chapter.
If you are considering making the move, talk it over with family, friends and adult children. Spend time visiting senior living communities, talk to current residents and staff members. You may decide now isn’t the right time for you to move, but you’ll have a plan ready for when it is.
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