Independent Living: Making the transition seamless and painless
Depending on the source, moving ranks prominently among the top stressors in life. No matter your age or circumstance, leaving your home is tough. You’ve made memories and built a life there. It’s difficult and emotional, as it should be. But those memories go with you, and your next adventure is calling – along with new friends and a more comfortable, secure environment. Best of all? You’re not alone. There are a number of great sources to encourage and support you along the way.
Keep in mind others who have already completed this journey – friends in retirement communities are vital founts of information and opinion. Ask them about the facilities they’re living in. They’ll love giving you the inside scoop on “what to do” and “what not to do.” Your children are also a great source – they can help you sort, organize and plan. Transition companies are experts at downsizing. Most independent living facilities have go-to recommendations for outfits like these or even offer it to residents for a fee. The bottom line? When you need help, ask for it. Regardless of how strong-willed and independently minded you are.
Getting Started
As with any big decision in life that involves finances, calling your advisor, accountant, or attorney is a great place to start for advice and planning. Work to keep everything organized, using a binder with sections for different moving company bids, retirement community details, checklists, and more.
Now the Real Fun Begins – What to Take?
Like most, you’ve gathered countless keepsakes throughout the years. But it’s time to purge. Take it room by room, downsizing one space at a time. Make it fun by taking photos of yourself with special items you truly love but know are not practical to keep. Give special pieces to your children and grandchildren. Use a company or app to transfer photos to a disc or drive (great for digital picture frames). Pass photo albums and frames onto children or other family members. Then work to organize and pack remaining items into four main categories (and boxes):
To Keep – favorite clothing, outerwear, everyday necessities, shoes, toiletries, etc.
To Donate – things you haven’t worn for a year or longer; things of value like purses, bedding, small appliances and kitchen items
To Sell – price as you pack, or use an estate sale company to price for you, include things similar to donation like artwork, figurines, clothes, accessories
To Discard – an opportunity to be somewhat ruthless, get rid of torn and over-worn clothing, bedding, trinkets and more
Own Your Home? It’s Time to List
Start interviewing real estate agents about six months before you need to list. Look for an agent with experience and the motivation to work with you rather than one just looking for commission. Ask for referrals from friends and loved ones, and talk to two or three different people – don’t feel pressured to sign the first agent you meet. Remember to consider the following:
What’s their mission? Do they have a mission statement?
Do they have a team or work independently?
How long have they been in business? Remember, experience is key.
What services do they offer? What’s their commission?
Do they have a process or strategy for selling your home?
What can they do to help you? Any improvements needed to ensure top dollar?
Make sure they show you price comparisons that match your home and your area.
The most important part is finding someone you can trust and who will communicate with you throughout the entire process.
A Community That’s Right for You
A good agent can also send you info on favorable 50+ communities if you are looking to buy again. Or they can help research independent living facilities and assist you in finding the one that matches your needs.
As you visit and weigh options, have your own set of questions and checklists ready to be answered – which should include floor plans, prices and parking, as well as some or all of the following:
Which meals are provided and when?
What kind of activities are available?
How many residents?
What options exist if you need additional help or care?
Do they provide transportation?
Don’t neglect your online research – google is a great source of information and reviews. Before any final decisions are made, you should review all details of the facility’s contract with your attorney.
Last? When moving day comes, pack a bag as if you were taking a trip. It’ll make your first night in your place easier and more comfortable. After all, you’ll have just embarked on the first leg of this new journey. Cheers to new beginnings!