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, we can share seven (7) secrets that can help even the most anxious feel happier in a new home.
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, we can share seven (7) 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 can help you remember all the happy times in your life. One resident of a senior living apartment shared, “My goal was to be able to look around my apartment and see the memories of my life through the items I brought to the retirement community.”
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. For example, hang pictures of places you would like to visit someday or buy that 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 offer an incredible variety of features and amenities at your fingertips 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 unpacking—or maybe even before—start taking advantage of all the amenities your new community offers. Treat yourself to a program, cocktail party, or concert in the Event Center as you are settling in to your new home.
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 allows you to connect 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. Companionship also reduces your risk for depression, anxiety, and other well-being issues that prevent you from being happy.
Many seniors who move into a retirement community comment on how easy it is to make friends. The organization of events and activities around interests such as fitness, gardening, music, and other topics are a natural stepping stone to meeting people who have common interests–and can help you forge friendships.
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, or plan to tour local museums and attractions.
Finding happiness in a senior apartment community—especially when you live in Cincinnati—is easier than ever. Following these seven secrets to being happy in senior apartments is a surefire way to enjoy your new home.