5 Tips for Moving into a Retirement Home
Moving is a process that requires a lot of our time, energy, and money. As such, it is always stressful. However, when it comes to seniors moving into a retirement home, moving is also very complex. Besides worrying about all the moving-related tasks, seniors also have to worry about their safety and comfort.
Luckily, with proper planning and preparation, moving into a retirement home can be a piece of cake. The most important thing is to start with all the moving tasks ahead of time and find reliable help. We are also a part of that reliable help! Today, we will share with you 5 tips for moving into a retirement home that will hopefully alleviate this task.
1. Start Preparing Ahead of Time
As mentioned previously, when it comes to moving into a retirement home, it is of key importance to start preparing ahead of time. Proper planning and preparation will not only save you a lot of time, energy, and money, but it will also save you from injuries, stress, and all kinds of troubles. Thus, as soon as you decide that it is time to move, start making a plan.
First, decide on your date and budget - these two will dictate your entire move. Depending on how much time and money you have, you can determine whether you want to hire professionals or have a DIY kind of move. The first option is, of course, more expensive. The second one is cheaper but bear in mind that doing everything yourself might be very challenging. You will need to gather all the packing materials, pack all of your belongings, hire a moving truck, find somebody to help you with heavy lifting and all the loading and unloading, etc. Thus, think everything through, and do it ahead of time! 
Make sure to plan your move ahead of time!
2. Find a Retirement Home That Suits You
There are many retirement homes around the United States of America. Which one you will choose will depend on your needs and budget. For instance, most seniors decide to settle in one of these states - Texas, Iowa, Oklahoma, Missouri, Mississippi, Tennessee - because they are the most affordable ones. But, money is not the only factor that should affect your decision. Think about the amenities you would like to have in or around your retirement home too. Some seniors prefer having a pool nearby, some prefer socializing centers, and some just want a retirement home with rooms big enough so that their children and grandchildren can come to visit.
Moreover, you should also think about whether you want your retirement home to be in the city where your family is, or somewhere far away - close to the beach, in the mountains, in a city you always dreamed of, etc. This is your time to relax and do something you always wanted. Thus, be sure to find a retirement home that can help you fulfill all your wishes.
3. Declutter and Downsize
Once you have found a retirement home that suits all of your needs, it is time to slowly start preparing your belongings for the move. It should be clear to you, right from the start, that you cannot relocate all the items you have in your current home. The reason for that is simple - retirement homes are small and usually consist of only one room. Thus, prepare yourself for serious decluttering and downsizing.
Pack only the things that you absolutely need! Those should be the things you use every day, things that are valuable and expensive, and things that have a great sentimental value to you. Ask your family members if they want some of the items you are leaving behind, or simply donate, sell, or throw away the things you do not need. This is also a great way to prepare for your movers - having fewer items to pack means less work and a cheaper relocation!
Before you start packing, declutter as much as you can.
4. Find Help!
A month or two before your moving date, start looking for your moving help. If you wait for the last minute to book your movers, you will end up with neither an affordable nor reliable company. If you are having problems finding a professional moving company, ask your friends and family for some recommendations. And, if they are not able to help you out either, look for your movers online. Be sure to do a thorough background check on them, and don't forget to read the reviews!
Moreover, as you are a senior, you should not rely only on your movers. If possible, get help from your friends and family members too! Movers can help you with all the moving-related tasks, but friends and family members can help you with everything else. Thus, notify everybody on time!
If you want an easy and stress-free relocation, find help as soon as possible.
5. Settle in and Celebrate
If you have gone through all the steps mentioned above, all that is left now is to settle in and celebrate. No matter how 'handy' you are, do not try to unload and unpack everything yourself! Either let your movers do all of this for you or ask your family members to assist you. Trust us, carrying those boxes and all the household knick-knacks is not as easy as it seems.
Moreover, after everything is unpacked, be sure that your new room in the retirement home is ready for you and all your needs. For instance, if you have difficulties walking, have somebody help you install rails throughout the room. Or, if you have problems with installing all your technology, have somebody set up all your appliances.
Lastly, do not hesitate to celebrate! Moving into a retirement home is nothing to be sad about. You will be surrounded by people your age - get to know them. Find friends with whom you will participate in all sorts of activities in your new home and city and those with whom you will spend this new chapter of your life.