As children grow up and move out of their parents’ homes, many parents find themselves wondering what to do next. For some empty nesters, the answer is to move closer to their adult children. This decision can provide parents with the opportunity to be more involved in their children’s lives while also providing them with the chance to explore new neighborhoods and communities. However, moving as an empty nester comes with its own unique set of challenges. Here are some important steps to take when you’re looking to move closer to your adult children, courtesy of Alder Terrace Gardens.

Consult Your Adult Children

Before you start packing up your belongings, it’s important to have a conversation with your adult children about your plans to move closer to them. Make sure they are on board with your decision and discuss their availability to help with the move, such as by assisting with house hunting or helping with packing and unpacking. It’s important to make sure that everyone is on the same page before making any big decisions.

Visit Neighborhoods That Interest You

Once you have the support of your adult children, it’s time to start exploring potential neighborhoods and areas near them that you’re interested in living in. Take the time to visit these neighborhoods and see what they have to offer in terms of amenities, community events, and facilities for seniors. Consider the proximity to medical facilities and other essential services that you may need access to as a senior, such as grocery stores and pharmacies.

Make Digital Copies of Your Paper Records

Moving as an empty nester often means downsizing your living space, which means you’ll need to get rid of some of your belongings. However, there are likely some important documents and records that you’ll want to keep with you. To save space, it’s a good idea to digitize these records. Save them as PDFs to ensure accessibility and easy sharing with your adult children and other family members.

Budget for Relocation

Moving can be expensive, so it’s important to create a budget for all the relocation expenses you’ll incur. This includes the cost of hiring movers, any upgrades or repairs you need to make to your new home, and any fees associated with selling your current home. Make sure to factor in any unexpected expenses that may arise as well.

Research Nearby Services and Amenities

As you get older, you may find that you need some extra help with tasks such as housekeeping, personal care aides, and meal delivery. Research nearby services that offer these types of assistance so that you’re prepared if you need them later on.

Look for a Senior-Friendly Home

When looking for a new home, make sure to consider senior-friendly features such as single-level living, wider hallways and doorways, and easy-to-use fixtures such as lever-style door handles and faucets. These features will make your home more comfortable and accessible as you age. Take a look at Alder Terrace Gardens’ available accommodations.

Use a Home Maintenance and Repair App

If you need to upgrade your new home to make it more senior-friendly, consider using a home maintenance and repair app to make the process easier. For example, with the Frontdoor app, you can connect with local service providers and receive estimates for the cost of repairs or upgrades. You can also talk to contractors and experts face-to-face to ask questions about any potential repairs that you can handle by yourself.

Take a Look at Assisted Living Facilities

Finally, it’s important to plan for the future by exploring assisted living facilities in the area. While you may not need these facilities now, it’s important to have a plan in place for when you do. Research the options and consider visiting a few facilities to get a sense of what they offer.

Making the decision to move closer to your adult children as an empty nester can be a life-changing experience. Follow these crucial steps to ensure that your relocation is a seamless and prosperous one. Enjoy the opportunity to explore new neighborhoods, create new memories with your loved ones, and plan for a happy and healthy future in your home.

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