Making the Move: 5 Tips for Settling Into Your New Home

It doesn’t matter what age we are or even how ready we might be to leave our homes, moving to a new place can leave one nervous of the unknown. But knowing what to navigate and feeling prepared, both mentally and emotionally, can help ease the transition tremendously. Here at Summerfield, we want your transition into our independent senior housing to be at our ideal senior living center. Here are a few things to keep in mind to help make your move as smooth as possible.

Munch and Mingle

Mealtimes at the dining hall are a great way to meet others in a friendly and stress-free setting. Fitting in can be as easy as taking a seat and enjoying a casual conversation over lunch. Activities are listed on the daily calendars, and our activities director and staff work hard to plan and provide activities to socialize and engage in. Our staff would be happy to introduce you to your new neighbors, and they in turn will be happy to know about you, too.

Smaller Spaces

In most cases, moving to a senior living apartment is a move that requires some downsizing. It can be tough to let go of a favorite couch or table, but letting go of objects can give way to a fresh start. Finding new homes for objects can be a chance to de-clutter accumulating junk and clear some much-needed space. There are several thrift stores in the area that offer pickup services to make sorting through that old clothes hamper much easier.

As you move in, there are small ways that may help the new space feel familiar and feel like you. You could set up photos of loved ones or put up reminders of important achievements of your life. Things and items that don’t require much space, yet make a home feel like a home.

Keep up your Hobbies

You may be in a new place, but you don’t have to give up the hobbies that are important to you. Keeping your daily, weekly, or monthly activities can help retain a sense of normalcy and continuity. Your hobbies also may help you find new activity partners, continue your work with the local chapter of your favorite organization, or discover new ways to volunteer your time.

Give it Time

Lastly, it’s important to give yourself plenty of time to adjust and learn the lay of the land, including the hallways and different floors, the grounds, and the neighborhood. Don’t hesitate to ask either a staff member or long-term resident to help you navigate—someone who not only knows the area well, but also knows where to point out all the safety measures.

Like all good things, feeling at home can take more than one day. Give the change time to settle, and we promise Summerfield will feel like and become a loving home, too.

In Conclusion

Our kind staff and friendly residents are ready ana happy to do all they can to make sure your transition to senior living is a smooth one. If at any time you have a question or would like to know how to feel more involved as a newer resident, please don’t hesitate to ask.