Moving into a senior apartment community is a significant milestone in your life. You may find the process exhausting— especially when making decisions about where and when to move, packing and unpacking boxes, and learning how to find your way around a new neighborhood.
You may even find the process worrisome as you wonder if you will be happy in your new place. For most people, moving to an apartment for the first time begins a new era of freedom and carefree living. Others do experience some difficulty adjusting to the new lifestyle. Fortunately, there are seven secrets that can help even the most anxious feel happier in a new home.
1. Remember the past.
You have enjoyed a long and interesting life, and your new apartment should reflect your unique personal history. Decorate with bits of meaningful memorabilia you’ve collected throughout your life— pictures, a favorite quilt, or knickknacks that hold sentimental value. Bring along a couple of your favorite books or photo albums. These items give new spaces that “lived in” look, and they help you remember all the happy times in your life.
2. Leave room for future memories.
While it’s a good idea to bring a few mementos when you move, avoid the temptation of filling your new apartment with all old stuff— leave some room for new items. Moving into your new senior apartment is like getting a new lease on life. Create cheerful room décor that embraces both your past and your future. Hang pictures of exotic lands you would like to visit someday, for example, buy that exquisite antique vase you have always wanted. Surround yourself with things that bring you joy.
3. Explore your new home.
Discover all the features and benefits of your new living space, including convenience stores, spas, pools, gardens, event centers, exercise areas and more. Senior apartments in Cincinnati house an incredible variety of architectural features that keep you happy without leaving the confines of your new home.
4. Enjoy the amenities.
A dip in the pool, a nice meal, good music and an inviting atmosphere can vastly improve your move-in experience. When you’re finished un-packing—or maybe even before— start to take advantage of all the amenities your new community has to offer.
5. Make new friends.
Making new friends is perhaps one of the best parts about moving to a new senior apartment. Do you have a hard time making new friends? Living in a senior apartment gives you an opportunity to chat with someone you might not have otherwise had a chance to meet. Just knock on a neighbor’s door or strike up a conversation at dinner.
A new friend can rekindle your interest in an old hobby or stimulate your curiosity about an activity you have never tried before. Companionship also reduces your risk for depression, anxiety and other mental health issues that prevent you from being happy.
6. Join in on activities offered by the community.
Participating in group activities can help you better get to know your neighbors and build friendships that will make you feel more at home.
Upscale senior apartments in Cincinnati offer a well-stocked social calendar to keep you happy in your new senior apartment, hosting activities within the apartment building, such as movie or game nights, and offering group excursions to the symphony or local restaurants.
7. Participate in activities outside the apartment.
Sometimes the secret to happiness in your home is to get out occasionally. Doing things outside the confines of your apartment building keeps you connected with others and reduces your risk for developing depression, anxiety and other mood disorders. Get involved in local activities outside your building. Volunteer with a non-profit, purchase season tickets to your favorite sports team (Go Reds!), or make plans to tour local museums and attractions.
Finding happiness in a senior apartment community—especially when you live in Cincinnati— is easier than ever. Just follow these seven secrets to being happy in senior apartments and you will always love your beautiful home.
