For some people, moving is easy. For others, it’s a highly anxious, overwhelming, and stressful experience. However, you can make the process easier by being prepared to maintain your mental health while moving. A successful move takes some planning along with an awareness of how the move impacts those around you and how you handle major life changes.
If you’re retiring and planning to relocate, consider working with Solivita Living. We are a real estate agency in central Florida specializing in 55+ communities. We have 8 locations with a variety of amenities and attractions to help you create your happily ever after. You have worked hard- you deserve to relax!
In this article, we’ll explain how older adults can maintain their mental health while moving.
4 Tips for a Successful Move
Moving can be a stressful time. However, there are some things you can do to make things easier.
Trim Down Variables
While it’s true that plans can go awry, one of the best ways to reduce stress is to make a plan. This will limit potential problems and unwelcome surprises.
Set a date: The very first thing to do is set a move date. Most of the time, long-distance moves happen during the summer. However, it may be better to move during the spring or fall, when temps are cooler to reduce strain on your body and emotions.
Hire someone or DIY? Both of these options have advantages and disadvantages. Take some time to consider both and determine whether you should hire a professional moving service or do it yourself with the assistance of friends and family.
Do you plan to drive to your new home? Before you head out, visit a mechanic to see if your car needs a tune-up or new tires. This should be taken care of as early as possible to reduce the risk of car troubles on your journey.
Take it One Step at a Time
When you’re looking at the big picture, even a small move can be overwhelming for older adults. After all, it’s a process, not just a single action.
Therefore, take the time to break things down with a moving checklist to help you get organized. This should include things like decluttering, planning a yard sale or donating to get rid of things you no longer want or need, packing up each room, and turning off the utilities at your current home and on at your new one. Once you break the process up into more manageable pieces, your mental health should be in better shape.
Don’t Hide Your Emotions
If you’ve lived in the same place for a long time, it’s understandable to have mixed emotions about leaving. While you may be excited to move to a new place, you may also be sad about leaving behind the life that you built with those around you. Don’t try to hide these emotions. Often, it’s more exhausting to maintain a stoic demeanor than to share how you’re feeling.
You should also keep in mind that your partner, children, and others in your life are impacted too. You may need to encourage them to take care of their own mental health while moving. You may be able to bring things into perspective by being supportive of them throughout the process.
Many people find that journaling can help them release their feelings. Plus, it documents your journey so that you can look back in a few years and see how well things turned out.
Look on the Bright Side
Think about the positive side of moving to a new place. While circumstances vary from one person to another, moving to a new place means that you’ll have new experiences, make new connections, and embark on a new chapter.
Solivita Living offers a variety of amenities and attractions for retirees. You’ll have lots of opportunities for socializing or for spending time exploring new hobbies on your own.
Don’t Let Moving Stress You Out
Moving can be stressful- especially for older adults. If you’re struggling, reach out to someone. Keep these tips in mind to help you settle into your new home. If you’re retiring, consider working with Solivita Living, a real estate agency specializing in 55+ communities across Central Florida. Schedule a virtual or in-person tour today to learn more!