Ways to Communicate and Involve Your Family in Your Move to a Retirement Community
Selling the family home can evoke strong emotions in your children, especially if significant events like weddings, proposals, or family gatherings occurred on the property. Depending on the relationship you have with your children, they may question your decision or resent the fact that you are “spending their
inheritance” as you move to a continuing care retirement community.
Sherilyn Lapp, director of Social Service Advocacy, walked with her parents and siblings as her parents moved to a retirement community. Based on her personal experience, she offers the following advice.
Communicate, communicate, communicate. While this is a decision you will make for yourself, the more you communicate with your family, the better the transition. Openly share the experiences you have had with the sales team and invite your children to join you for a tour. When you get the call that a home is available for you, invite your children to accompany you. Invite them to dream with you about your
future, whether it’s in three years or three months.
Invite Involvement. In addition to the opportunities previously listed, invite your children to join you for special events, walks around campus or concerts in the Chapel. Just as you needed multiple visits to determine if Garden Spot Village was right for you, your children may need multiple visits to
begin to feel comfortable with the idea that you are moving.
Be Transparent. Be transparent about the financial implications for you and your children. Explain your financial situation and how you anticipate a move will affect you now and in the future. Allow your children to read the contract and ask questions. The more they understand, the better they will be
able to advocate for you in the future.
Including your children in the process does not mean you are asking for permission or approval. Instead, you are offering them the opportunity to walk with you on your journey.
A previous blog shares the benefits your children will experience when you move to Garden Spot Village. Click here to read the blog.