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Moving to a New Retirement Community? How to Make it Feel Like Home 

Moving to a retirement community can be a wonderful, fresh start. Even though the change may be bittersweet, it can be an exciting and positive transition to make changes that fit your changing life in your retirement years. You are about to experience new places, meet new people and maybe even find new hobbies and interests.  

Your moving to-do list might include everything you need to flourish in your new community, including a local grocery store, primary care doctor, and, of course, friends and connection. Here’s how to find everything you need to make your new retirement community feel like home. 

Getting into a Weekly Routine

First, think about everything you typically need on a weekly basis. Where are you going to shop on your weekly grocery run? Do you prefer curbside pickup or grocery delivery? Look around for shopping options nearby, from big chain stores to local favorites. 

Next, what about a hairdresser? If getting your hair cut and styled is part of your routine, you’ll want to find a good hairdresser, barber shop or salon in your new home. If you’re not sure where to get started, look online for reviews or ask around for recommendations. This is also a great conversation starter! 

Finally, consider your options for recreation. Check the official website of your new city or town to learn about local parks, trails and other places to get outside and enjoy the great outdoors. This is also a good place to learn about local shopping, boutiques and restaurants. Experiencing the local flavor through dining is an easy (and fun) way to learn more about the community. 

Connecting with Care Providers

A new town also means a new doctor, dentist and any other care providers you may need. To find these in your new retirement community, start with your health insurance. Review who in the area is “in-network” and will therefore qualify for coverage. 

Within the options available, evaluate which primary care doctor might be the right fit for you. When making this decision, it’s important to consider their location, patient reviews and individual personality. It’s never a bad idea to schedule an in-person meet-and-greet to get to know each other. Some doctors even make the first appointment a get-to-know-you chat for this very reason. 

In addition, check the local options for any specialty care (such as podiatry or audiology) you may need as well as finding a convenient local pharmacy. 

Finding Community

At the end of the day, home isn’t just a place – it’s those around you. Forming meaningful friendships is one of the most important parts of settling into a new retirement community. Whatever type of community you seek, try to be proactive in making those connections. 

For instance, if you’re looking to meet other likeminded people of faith, visit a local church or join a bible study. If you love to read, join a book club at the library or bookstore. You can even take a cooking class or join a virtual Facebook group for a given hobby or interest. 

Many retirement communities provide these important opportunities for connection right on campus, such as clubs, social events and holiday parties. Be sure to check with a staff member or read the local newsletter for these types of opportunities.  

While it can feel intimidating to step out of your comfort zone, it’s always worth it to meet a new friend. Shared hobbies, interests and beliefs are a great icebreaker when meeting someone new and they give you something to talk about. As author C.S. Lewis once said, “Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another: “What! You too? I thought I was the only one!” 

Good friends truly make the difference between a place and a home. 

Find Home at Advent Christian Village

For our vibrant community members, Advent Christian Village embodies home in every sense of the word. Residents enjoy the resources needed for independent living, such as a grocery store, barber shop, post office and pharmacy right on campus. Friendships blossom every day as they connect with like-minded friends through our active faith community, hobby clubs and exciting social events and concerts.  At ACV, you’ll experience a community where neighbors truly care for one another, and you can age with meaning and purpose.   

Want to experience a new kind of retirement for yourself? Call today to schedule a tour – we’d love to show you what home could look like for you. 

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