Your housing needs may change as you age. Many older adults find themselves wanting to “rightsize” to a smaller, more manageable residence that better matches their current lifestyle after retirement. But, this can be a difficult undertaking, especially if you’ve been in your current home for a long time. Learn how to rightsize to a senior home in Henrico, VA, with this step-by-step guide.
Assess Your Needs
The first step in the rightsizing process is to assess your needs. Consider your current lifestyle and the sort of residence that would best meet your needs. Do you need a smaller apartment with fewer maintenance obligations? Do you want a residence with amenities like a pool or a fitness center? Create a list of your must-haves and your nice-to-haves.
Make a Budget
Setting a budget is the next step in the rightsizing process. Decide how much you can afford to spend on a new place, including any associated expenditures such as moving costs and home improvements. Consider hiring a financial advisor to help you create a budget.
Declutter Your Current Residence
Before you can move to a new residence, you must first declutter your current one. This can be a daunting task, but it is necessary for rightsizing. Go through your possessions and decide what you want to keep, what you want to donate, and what you want to sell. Consider hosting a garage sale or using an online marketplace to sell items you no longer need.
Consider Your Health Needs
When rightsizing to a senior living apartment, it’s important to consider any health needs you may have. For example, if you have mobility issues, you may want to look for a retirement community with accessibility amenities like grab bars or a walk-in shower. Additionally, you may want to consider a community with social aspects, which can help combat isolation and loneliness.
Prioritize Your Emotional Needs
It is typical for older adults to relocate closer to family members in order to spend more time together. If your adult children are scattered around the country, you must decide whether to relocate closer to one of them or to a more centralized location with a convenient transit hub.
Research Senior Housing Options
Once you’ve assessed your needs and set a budget, it’s time to research senior housing options. There are many different types of senior living options, from independent living communities to assisted living communities. Visit different places to get an idea of what you’re looking for.
Prepare for the Move
The next step is preparing yourself for the move. Make a list of everything you need to do before the move, such as packing and hiring a moving company. Consider hiring a professional organizer or downsizing specialist to help you with the transition.
Stay Organized
Staying organized can help make the rightsizing process smoother. Create a list of things you need to do and keep track of important deadlines and appointments. Consider using a moving checklist to help you stay on track.
