Exploring the Data Behind Living Life Well

Finalizing the decision to move to a senior living community is exciting! The research and decision-making is over, and the enjoyment can begin. For new residents of Village at the Triangle, they’re about to enjoy access to curated wellness programs, chef-prepared cuisine, and resort-style amenities like a salon, spa, and concierge services. However, before Living Life Well can fully begin, there is one more big step that can feel a bit daunting – the move. 

Making a significant move is a common part of retirement years. About 25 percent of home sellers are 60 or older, according to Zillow. Because of the emotional and logistical hurdles, many find downsizing a daunting process. The following four steps can simplify the process, decrease the stress, and help individuals ease gracefully into a new home and lifestyle. 

1. Determine Apartment Size for Space Planning.

Sorting household items is an important part of the downsizing process. For those who have lived in the same home for decades, sifting through a lifetime of memories and saved items can feel overwhelming and emotional – but it can also be an opportunity to reflect, share stories, and choose the pieces that will make your new space feel like home.

Pro-Tip: Avoid the time-consuming and overwhelming approach of looking at each item and considering if it’s wanted, needed, and fits. Using the floorplan, determine what items are needed then stick to the list and choose items that fit the plan. 

The number of items you bring with you depends largely on the size of your new residence. Luxury retirement options typically offer a variety of floor plans. For example, at The Village at the Triangle, independent living apartments range from 700 to nearly 1,300 square feet. Other care areas offer slightly cozier spaces with the same stylish upgrades. Once you settle on the size of your new home, you can move on to selecting the pieces that will make it both beautiful and functional.

Pro-Tip: Plan for storage space equal to 10 percent of your total square footage.

2. Consider Hiring a Senior Move Manager.

A senior move manager can help you or your loved one handle every aspect of the move to senior living with ease. These experienced professionals bring organization, compassion, and expertise to the process – simplifying decisions, coordinating logistics, and ensuring a smooth, comfortable transition for those who value extra support or have family at a distance.

Senior Move Managers typically offer services such as:

• Sorting and organizing belongings
• Arranging estate sales or auctions
• Interviewing, scheduling, and overseeing movers
• Supervising professional packing and ensuring the safe transport of valuables like art and antiques
• Selecting and coordinating with a realtor
• Cleaning, staging, and preparing your home for sale

To find a qualified professional, consult the National Association of Senior and Specialty Move Managers (NASMM). Member companies carry liability insurance, complete courses on industry best practices, and are required to follow a code of ethics. Choosing a NASMM-certified  company ensures that your possessions receive the highest level of care and “white glove” service.

The Senior Move Manager industry has grown rapidly in recent years, from just 30 NASMM member companies a few decades ago to over 1,000 today, reflecting customer satisfaction with this comprehensive service.

3. Design for Comfort and Aging in Place.

When designing a new living space that is equipped for enjoyment and safety – perhaps with the help of a move manager or professional designer – you might find decorating is somewhat different than a previous home or condo. 

Plan for both current and future needs. Most senior living spaces include safety features such as nonslip flooring, bright lighting, wide doorways, low-entry showers, and grab bars. At The Village at the Triangle, these safety elements are paired with luxury items like quartz countertops, nine-foot ceilings, and floor-to-ceiling windows.  

Pro-Tip: Safety features can work cohesively with personal tastes and preferences. Consider the following recommendations:

• Create pathways that are open and free of obstacles.
• Avoid area rugs or mats that could pose a tripping hazard.
• For more minimalist spaces, opt for smaller pieces of furniture or multi-use furniture like an ottoman with storage.
• Avoid clutter for visual calm and ease of movement.

4.  Transform Your Space Into Your Home.

Once the furniture is in place, it is time to attend to the details. Whether your style leans toward simple elegance or sophisticated opulence, decor will help a new space truly feel like home. Add meaningful pieces like family heirlooms, art collected during your travels, cherished books, and framed photos of family members. Incorporate warmth and dimension with soft lighting, textured fabrics, and natural elements like plants or woven throws.

Explore the Lifestyle at The Village at the Triangle.

Once the final touches on your new home are complete, it’s time to enjoy your surroundings and meet the neighbors. The Village at the Triangle is an upscale, vibrant community offering independent living, assisted living, and memory care. It provides resort-style amenities such as an indoor pool, walking trails, fitness center and yoga studio, theater, and beautifully manicured grounds.

Centrally located in Austin, Village at the Triangle sits within a cosmopolitan district, just minutes from shopping, fine dining, and cultural attractions. Schedule a tour today to discover how The Village at the Triangle blends a refined design, luxurious amenities, and personalized care to create a lifestyle of distinction.