You have made the preparations. Questions have been asked and tours have been taken. You have thoroughly researched your options and decided on the perfect senior living community for your needs. Cherished belongings have been carefully packed, and you have officially moved into your new home. What are the next steps?
Processing Emotions
With any move, there is an adjustment period. You are likely feeling a little overwhelmed from the transition and still processing the big changes in your life. Sorting through belongings and leaving a place where treasured memories have been made can be an emotional process, and it is completely normal to experience these feelings. One thing that may help is to set up your new living area the way you want it: decorate with those familiar items you brought with you, and you may be surprised at how quickly you begin to feel at home. It is important to remember that while a new community can seem unfamiliar at first, it also brings with it many new and exciting opportunities.
Getting to Know Your Community
Whether you are relocating within the same city or moving somewhere entirely new, an essential part of settling in is getting to know the people around you through socialization. One of the best ways to do this is to look for activities and outings that strike your interest so you can begin to make new friends and develop new routines.
If you have not done so already, ask about opportunities available for your community. Is there a calendar of upcoming activities provided? Find a few social events that look interesting and be sure to attend. It is an excellent opportunity to get to know your neighbors! At Sunset Senior Communities, our Life Enrichment Team works hard to put together a full calendar of fun outings, concerts, and socials for our residents to choose from. Our amenities even include arts and crafts studios and educational classes, which provide additional opportunities to interact with those around you.
Getting to Know Your Surroundings
While we encourage our residents to take advantage of social events, we also recognize not everyone will be ready to dive in right away. It is important to understand that we all have different paces and comfort levels, and no two residents are the same. If concerts and day trips are a bit more excitement than you’re ready for, this could be the perfect time to go out and explore the grounds around you. If you have chosen to call a Sunset Community home, you will have access to picturesque walking paths, ideal for moments of quiet reflection. Many of our residents enjoy this tranquil environment, and you will likely make a few friends who are fond of a peaceful afternoon outdoors.
Staying Connected to Family and Friends
Moving into a senior living community can be a big adjustment, and not just for the person moving. As you immerse yourself in activities and make new friends, you will want to stay connected with loved ones. Depending on your unique needs, you may have lived with family members, and maybe they even took on a caregiving role. Now that you’ve moved into a senior living community, these needs can be met by caring and competent staff, allowing for time spent with relatives to be more enjoyable and stress free. Be sure to take advantage of this opportunity by making regular plans with loved ones. Encourage friends and family to visit you at your new home to create new memories there, together.
Another way to stay connected is through technology, including the simple action of picking up the phone. Once you are comfortable in your new community, you may find your calendar is fuller than you realized. If this is the case, a weekly phone call can help you feel connected even when your schedule keeps you pleasantly busy. Internet access is available in all of our communities for residents who wish to stay in touch through email and social media.
Sunset Helps You Feel Right at Home
What can you expect upon moving into a senior living community? Expect to make new friends, go on outings together, and discover new interests. Expect to experience a variety of emotions, as you would expect with any significant change in life, and allow yourself the time needed to acclimate to your new surroundings. Be confident in your decision and, before you know it, you will begin to feel right at home.
If you’re still wondering about what you can expect at a Sunset Senior Community, please reach out to us. We are happy to answer any questions you have!