2016. It’s a brand new year, and it’s a great time to venture out of your suite and get to know your neighbours! This is particularly important if you’ve just moved in…
And moving is a big change. There’s no doubt that the transition into a new home, particularly a retirement community, can be a challenge for some and create a little anxiety for you, your family and your friends… it’s a big change for all involved.
The good news? You are not alone! Anyone who leaves a long-time family homestead behind struggles at least a little bit. It’s natural, and getting used to your new residence takes time too. This is a big change and it is important to remind yourself (and others) that you are in a period of adjustment.
Change, like anything else, takes time.
The single best thing you can do? Be proactive! Getting out more definitely makes the transition easier and turns any lingering discomforts into wonderful possibilities. When people are open to new opportunities, they are much more able to embrace it and feel settled more quickly.
Here are a few ideas to get you moving in the right direction:
Get out of your suite. Sounds obvious, but you have to intentionally put yourself out there. You’re not going to make many new friends by sitting in your living room chair. Spend some of your leisure time in the lounge. Join social hour, bingo, maybe even a Bridge group. Uncomfortable? Start small… Grab a newspaper and cup of coffee and find a cozy chair in the lobby.
Jump on The Bria Bus. Our bus excursions out to the symphony, museum or park are a great way to get to know other residents. You’ll spend a half or full day together, sharing new and exciting experiences that are bound to create memories and conversation.
Hit the weights. Head into the gym and give a new activity a go. Try yoga or Tai Chi, walking on the treadmill or free weights, whatever sparks your interest. As you get more comfortable, challenge yourself to a regular weekly commitment. Exercise never fails to shed the stress and triggers a positive feeling in the body and brain as a result of the endorphins. Consider exercise your happy medicine!
Start a new routine. Maybe it’s coffee in the lobby at 10, followed by a walk at 11. Maybe you have family or loved ones come for dinner every Sunday night. Or Tuesday, you shop or play cards with your neighbour. Regular routines help ground you and provide a sense of belonging.
Join a club. A gardening club, walking group or book club are all a great start. Or, why not see if you can get a few interested people together and start your own club?
Sweeten your suite. Make it cozy, place your memorabilia front and centre and keep all your comforts of home at the ready. Being happy in your surroundings manifests positive energy.
Dress to impress. Buy a fancy new jacket or pull out a favourite hat. Take extra care with your hair or shine up your shoes. If you look good, it’s hard not to feel good.
Reach out. Often, there is a Welcoming Committee, resident council or individual ready and willing to help. If you need ideas, assistance, information or just plain good company: ask.
Most importantly, be kind to yourself! Cut yourself some slack and don’t expect to adjust to your new surroundings overnight. Everyone needs, time and space. But with a little concerted effort and action, you can definitely be moving in the right direction.
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