For many seniors moving into Aston Gardens At Parkland Commons, the initial transition can be fraught with personal challenges. Although it can be difficult to make adjustments that involve downsizing and leaving a lot of history behind, the change is one worth looking forward to. There are numerous carefree senior living programs and opportunities to socialize that make the transition easier. The following are tips that can help seniors adjust to living at a retirement community such as Aston Gardens:
Enlist Help
Seniors should not go through the moving process alone, if for no other reason than the physical challenges of the task. When possible, enlist and accept the help of family members and friends as you prepare to move into a retirement community. Turn to family and friends not only for the physical move but also as a support system for the entire transition.
Start Small
It can be overwhelming to go through belongings acquired over the course of years for the purpose of moving into a smaller space. Don’t become overwhelmed as you face the challenge. Tackle the task one step at a time with the goal of completely emptying one drawer, closet, or room before moving on to the next.
Let Go Gradually
If possible, give yourself several months to pack your belongings and linger over memories of the past while contemplating the joys of the future. Choose valuable or sentimental items and go ahead and pass them on to loved ones. Why miss out on sharing in the joy of your loved ones as you entrust them with your most precious items? Favorite framed photographs, jewelry that was passed on to you by a distance relative, work or craft tools that have been used in the family for decades, and/or anything else that you’ve held dear and know in your heart it’s best to let go of are sure to be appreciated when given to others that you care about.
Downsizing is as necessary as it is practical for most seniors, particularly when moving from a large home to more limited space in a Florida retirement community. In addition to special items that you can give to family members, there will probably be many things that should be donated to charity or thrown out. This is very difficult for those with hoarding tendencies; but with support, help, and determination, necessary downsizing can be accomplished.
Keep Safety in Mind
Moving is an activity in which many potential hazards can arise. As your possessions are packed, be sure steps and other high traffic areas don’t become cluttered and create a tripping hazard. Get help with items that are heavy or high on top of shelves or cabinets.
Settle In
Once you’ve gotten through the difficult part of actually moving out, the next part of the process should be comparatively easy. Arrange your furniture and decorations in a way that makes you feel right at home. Once you are surrounded by familiar things, any discomfort in your new environment should be quickly dispelled.
Socialize
There are many great people to meet at Aston Gardens, between the staff and the other residents. Even if you have had a tendency to shy away from social gatherings, go ahead and start your new adventure by getting to know some people. By getting out and being friendly, you are paving the way for friendships to be forged that could bring you immeasurable joy and comfort in your later years. If you tend toward shyness, try attending a class and then asking the person next to you about any questions you may have, or share a comment about what’s being taught. Some social gatherings you may be able to choose from include bingo, poker for men, Bible study, movie night, and more.
Get Active
Endorphins are chemicals in your body that, when released, give you feelings of happiness. Exercise is a great way to stimulate those endorphins. Choose from among the many available activities at Aston Gardens. A look at the activity calendar from your Aston Gardens community quickly shows that many activities are available every week. Some of the activities you may be able to enjoy in your Florida retirement community include:
- Pool exercises
- Exercise class
- Sit and Be Fit
- Tai Chi
- Yoga
- Walking on scenic trails
We look forward to getting to know our new residents and strive to develop lasting relationships. May your transition to retirement living be as easy as possible. For more information on how we can help with your transition, contact us online or give us a call at 954.340.1908 today!
