People are not always fantastically enthusiastic about moving into a retirement home. But like anything in life it is about having a positive attitude. Retirement homes and care communities can be places full of interesting people where lots of fulfilling activities take place. Making this move into a new chapter in your life can be exciting and the more you put into it, the more you will get from the experience. Here are a few tips on making the most of your new home and taking positives from the move.
Get to Know the Place Prior to Moving In
A huge part of people’s uneasiness about moving into a retirement home is fear of the unknown. Having a look around the place you are moving into, liaising with the staff and looking into the facilities can go a long way to changing your attitude about a place. Take as many visits to your future home as possible and ask all the questions which will put your mind at rest.
Ensure Family Visits Are Regular
Another concern for many people going into homes is that they will not lead lives as social as they were. Often the opposite is the case as people make close friendships with other residents. However, you will still want to ensure you see your family on a regular basis. Before you move into the home have a go at setting up a visiting schedule with the various family members which will be paying you regular visits. Such a rota will ensure you are getting visits from friends and family at regular intervals.
Get Involved In Activities
Retirement homes such as those provided by Extra Care run a fantastic programme of activities for their residents. This means remaining physically and mentally active, meeting new people, and they are all opportunities you would not get by staying in your own home. Whether you are into art, yoga or gardening you may find the opportunity to carry on your hobby or take up a new one at a retirement home.
Be Social
Living with so many people at the same stage of life as yourself means there will almost definitely be many people living in the home who share the name interests and outlook as yourself. Retirement homes are places were strong bonds are forged and lasting friendships are made.
Get Your Room the Way You Like It
The most important thing is that you make your new living space feel like home. Check what adjustments you can make to the room, bring photographs of your family. Basically, make your room just as you want it and feel most comfortable. As a paying resident of the facility, it is the providers’ job to make you as happy and comfortable as possible. Always remember that.
