Moving to a New Home

– A Senior Perspective

Wasn’t it yesterday that I sat with my dear grandmother, talking about my dreams of what I would do when I grew up, who I would marry, and where I would I live? Then in the blink of any eye I was that grown up girl, married, and living in my own home. In that era, I began having another discussion, this time with my parents about where they should live after their retirement. I was blessed to have parents who lived to their eighties and nineties, prompting a careful look at the many options available to them after retirement. They followed a typical pattern, selling their home, moving into a condo community for people over 55, and eventually transitioning into assisted living. Throughout this time my daughter entered a career in senior living, also affording me the opportunity to visit communities in this area and consider where I might live. The question posed long ago with my grandmother once again surfaced. Where should I live?

As a senior in my 70’s, I am quickly recognizing that the years ahead of me will require many decisions about the place in which I should reside until I move to my heavenly home. As I contemplate the options available in Northwest Arkansas, so many factors come into play. Should I sell my home or rent it out? How much do I need to downsize? How should I dispose of excess furniture and other belongings? Should I move into apartments designed for seniors or into an independent living facility? Am I financially prepared for the cost associated with a senior living environment? How long do I wait before I transition to a different residence? How close should I locate to my children?

Although these questions are not unique to anyone in their senior years, they are prompting me to spend hours of reflection, observation, and research. My reflection brings to mind memories created in my current home, thankfulness for God’s provision, and the need to be flexible in my decision making. My observation includes visits to senior living communities, visits with residents, and conversations with staff. Research includes analyzing the financial implications of a potential home sale, exploring prices of communities, and determining what my future budget can accommodate.

As I navigate through this transition journey, I am primarily in the observation stage, having noted several areas which will likely impact my future decision. The care provided by the staff and the support given by other residents will outweigh the importance of a beautiful building. The appeal of a new structure is very appealing and may be the most important factor to many, but the warmth, support, and interaction between everyone on a campus will contribute to my happiness! Although a nicely furnished, cozy apartment will add to my comfort, the opportunity to look out the window and enjoy a beautiful view or enjoy a walk-through God’s nature will greatly enhance the appeal of any living environment. We are so blessed in Northwest Arkansas to have this available in many areas. Additionally, the activities provided for residents will add motivation to live. How exciting to have a calendar so full of activities that it is difficult to choose a favorite! Exercise classes, Bible Study, day trips, seminars, themed parties, arts and crafts events all make for a stimulating environment, one in which I would thrive! I have had the opportunity to enjoy some of the meals prepared by senior living communities in our area. To be able to sit down with new friends in a dining room that looks like a first-class restaurant is delightful, and to be served delicious food is another reward for choosing the ‘right’ senior living community. Finally, will my life continue to have purpose in a new environment? As we age, physical limitations may cause us to reevaluate our ability to contribute but having the opportunity to impact the lives of others is important to me.

My observations are limited at this point, but they will continue to expand as I also consider the impact of my decisions on family members. I value their input as well as that of friends and professionals in the senior living world. I am so thankful I have time to investigate multiple living options available in Northwest Arkansas while I am still relatively healthy and can think clearly. With so many senior living communities providing an array of amenities, I will be using the senior consultants to guide me when the time is right for me to move.

Concordia was grateful to receive this perspective from a senior looking into retirement options. We always encourage seniors and families to research your options now so that you have a plan in place when the time comes for you to move. Never wait

until a crisis or unforeseen circumstance to start your search. If you would like more information about Concordia and senior living options, please call 479-855-3714 and let us introduce you to our community senior consultants. They will guide you on all the options senior living provides.