Relocating into a McCarthy Stone apartment
Loneliness, being closer to family and downsizing are just a few reasons why moving into a retirement apartment can become a better option in later life.
Perhaps both you and your loved one(s) have been aware of the need to relocate for a while. Or maybe, family members are noticing the effects that living in your current home is having on you before you do. In some cases, you’ve decided to move, and they are less than convinced by it. Either way, the reason why someone decides to move into a retirement apartment is an essential factor in this conversation, it will most definitely come up, and it’s something that will be addressed.
This article discusses the reasons why moving into a McCarthy Stone apartment can lead to a more fulfilling retirement and then examines how to initiate the conversation with loved ones and talk about the more challenging aspects of relocating, so that the move benefits each and every member of the family.
The advantages of relocating into a McCarthy Stone apartment
Combating loneliness
Living in a big home when everyone’s flown the nest can feel lonely. Part of the problem for many children and grandchildren is balancing work, at-home family life and visiting their elderly family. As much as they may want to come around regularly, sometimes life gets in the way and makes it much too complicated. And even for those who can fit in a weekly or more regular visit, it’s important to remember that their loved one will still be alone for large parts of a day.
Being part of a community is a core value of McCarthy Stone retirement developments, and is key in uplifting and increasing happiness in those over the age of 55. The beautiful thing about living in a retirement apartment is that residents can enjoy their privacy and personal space, yet pop down to a homeowners lounge or landscaped garden to have a chat and catch-up with friends! Even more introverted types can benefit from being in the presence of others. Moreover, scheduled activities, group exercises and events provide every person with the opportunity to get involved or soak up the atmosphere. In most cases, family and friends can join in too.
Downsizing
A big house is a wonderful thing to have, but is it necessary? It’s important to think about how a smaller home could benefit you or your loved one. Physically, it will ease the pain of having to bend, kneel or lift items when vacuuming and cleaning. It will also take a lot of pressure off and boost happiness. Sitting in a house knowing it needs cleaning can be a horrible feeling to have.
House chores aside, the upkeep and cost of a bigger house can take it’s toll, especially in the winter months when heating needs to be cranked up. Saving on heating bills is money that could be put to better use and spent on little luxuries or saved for a holiday. Read about how downsizing is good for your health.
Talking about the difficult things
Once the decision has been made to move into a retirement home, certain things will need to be discussed, even when not wanted. Tackling these conversations from the beginning is essential. By doing this, you will be able to gain the best understanding of how to move forward, as well as avoid any arguments or tension.
Initiating the conversation
Initiating any conversation about moving into a retirement apartment needs to be thought through carefully. It’s important to think of every outcome that the discussion could have and to prepare for it. Make sure that you are all in a comfortable, familiar space such as at your loved one's home or yours. Also, make sure that it is intimate with only a small number of people present. Otherwise, it can feel like an ambush. Perhaps yourself and either your spouse, sibling or one of their friends would be enough.
Whether a happy, sad or ambivalent reason for moving there will always be some difficult subjects to talk about that are part of relocating to a retirement home, so be prepared with a pot of hot tea and some biscuits too!
Treasure important memories
For everyone involved, selling a family home can be an upsetting thought. Undoubtedly, it will be full of memories of important people, moments and events that took place and helped to form powerful bonds or experiences. When it comes to moving into a retirement apartment, this can be the biggest hurdle to face.
There are other ways to treasure significant memories. Talk about them, take care of mementoes and trinkets, and display pictures or favourite items on the new walls or mantlepiece. These will remind you all of beautiful moments in your lives while enabling a new and exciting chapter to begin.
We’re here to talk
Whether it’s on the phone or in person, we will provide you with all the information needed to help you move into your retirement apartment. Our dedicated team are here to simplify the moving process and help you and your family with any questions that you may have. No matter how little or big they may seem, don’t hesitate to get in touch and ask. You can also check our Frequently Asked Questions page to find out more information on our retirement properties, from service charges to the buying process.
Or, for anyone wanting to take a closer look at McCarthy Stone developments, we have plenty of Open Day’s that will give you a taste of life with McCarthy Stone. Chat with one of the friendly team members to find out more.
