Have you made the decision to move to an independent living community? If so, you know the benefits and advantages and are likely looking forward to a new lifestyle of fun, freedom and creating new friendships.
But as you plan for the actual move, don’t let yourself become overwhelmed at the thought of what to take and what to leave behind.
Tips for moving to an independent living community
You may be looking ahead and ready to start your new life but a little unsure of how to decide what should go or stay. Following these suggestions for both can help.
What to take when moving to independent living
Request a copy of your new home’s floor plan with dimensions. When deciding which pieces of furniture you’d like to take, measure first. You might even want to cut out paper shapes close to scale and play around with the layout. It’s much easier to move pieces of paper than couches and chairs.
What elements or objects in your current space make it feel like yours? Is it the artwork? A cozy afghan? A particular style of furniture? Make room in your new home for whatever it is that speaks to you and defines what home means. You may not have room for everything, but make sure you take representative pieces.
Home is wherever you live and you’ll want your new place to welcome you there every day. Surrounding yourself with those things that are most important can make you feel right at home. Make sure you bring along your favorite framed photographs, your grandchildren’s artwork or treasured books.
You’ll find your independent living home to be the perfect size and layout for your new carefree lifestyle. But when moving, consider bringing only the clothes that you really wear. Donate those unworn items that have taken up space in your closet for years. Take the time to go through your personal belongings and bring only those that you’ll use.
It’s a good idea to bring along your legal documents so that you have everything you may need in one place. Include your durable power of attorney, advance directives and living will. You’ll also want your health insurance, bank and retirement benefits information, vehicle titles, life insurance policies, tax returns, passport, birth certificate and Social Security card.
What to leave behind when moving to independent living
If your current home is filled with overstuffed furniture or too many accumulations, you may want to consider downsizing. Leave behind what won’t fit. Bringing too much will create a crowded room. Give yourself the chance to start fresh and make arrangements to give away, pass down or donate what you’ll leave behind.
Don’t overlook the importance of what to leave behind. Human nature tends to encourage us to fill as much space as we have. You may find yourself holding on to old furniture, clothing or old small appliances that are no longer being used. Let someone else benefit from these items and put them to good use.
Are you storing old mementos, your children’s souvenirs or several sets of china that have been passed down through the generations? As long as you had the room, it may have been easier to keep the lid on the boxes, but now it’s decision time. Don’t move storage boxes to your new home. It’s better to choose now what to keep and what to do with the rest.
Moving to an independent living community is the perfect time to create a fresh start and a safe environment. Only take what furniture will fit and leave behind what may require you to walk around. Also, eliminate straggling extension cords for ill-placed lamps or throw rugs that can create a common stumbling risk.
You may be surprised when you realize how many duplicate and triplicate items you’ve collected over the years. Before you move, commit to distributing all the extras to others. Choose one set of the items that you want and consider what you can do with your extra sets of holiday dishes, similar pots and pans and the linen closet full of additional sheets and blankets.
Ingleside at King Farm Independent Living
We understand the process of moving to an independent living community can at first seem a little daunting, but our residents quickly discover it is well worth the effort to free up space and make room for all the adventures waiting ahead.
At Ingleside at King Farm Independent Living, you’ll find everything you need to live an enriched lifestyle with our activities, social events and healthy dining programs.
You’ll also discover a private home that offers open and inviting spaces, walk-in closets and well-equipped kitchens. You’ll have the choice of the floorplan that works best for you. You’re also encouraged to personalize your home so it will be a unique expression of your own style.
We believe you’ll love our well-planned community, created to provide all the possibilities you’re looking for:
- Maintenance-free living
- Staffed fitness center
- Indoor heated pool and spa
- Cultural Arts Center
- New library
- Art studio
- Game room
- Classes, clubs and programs
- Meditation space and Yoga studio
- Spa/salon with massage room
- Spiritual, musical and theatrical programs
Along with scheduled transportation to medical appointments, shopping, concerts and other events, you’ll have easy access to the shuttle system that loops to the Metro as well as walking paths that lead to The King Farm Village Center, just a few blocks away.
Please visit our website or call (240) 414-8557 if you have any questions or would like to schedule a personalized tour today.