Moving is a big decision at any age. For older adults and those who are newly retired, relocation is often due to family circumstances or health reasons. While moving can enable people to have a better quality of life in their “golden years,” factors to weigh carefully include the following:
- Cost of living: States vary with regard to cost of living, which can have a significant impact on retirement savings. Besides state and federal income taxes, it’s wise to research property taxes, the average cost of utilities, housing costs, food, etc.
- Weather: Warm weather year-round may be ideal for some people, but there are always tradeoffs. Are you prepared to live in a hurricane or flood zone? If settling in a colder-weather state, what about the winters and other maintenance needs? Will you need to hire landscaping or snowplow services?
- Housing: What makes the most sense, renting or owning? Some people choose to rent for a period of time first to make sure they like the area. Will you downsize? People who plan to age in place at home should make sure that the house will meet their needs when they are older and frailer. For example, are there stairs that will be difficult to navigate? Can the bathroom accommodate a walk-in or sit-down shower? And if something happens that necessitates another move, such as the death of a spouse, what is the resale value?
- State and community services: The reality is that more than half of men and women over age 65 will need some form of long-term care in their lifetimes. And if a person lives alone, he/she is more likely to need paid care than a married couple, or people who are living together. The quality and availability of home care and long-term care facilities may become very important later in life.
- Health issues and medical care: Are there current health issues that will require more care and support over time? Are there healthcare professionals or caregivers that can be replaced in the new location and what will the costs be?
- Friends and community: Leaving friends and memories behind and establishing a new support network is not for everyone. If the move is solely to be closer to family members, what happens if their situation changes and they need to move somewhere else?
- Quality of life: Think of the things you enjoy doing, whether it’s gardening, walking, golfing, attending cultural events, etc. Does the new location offer these opportunities? What about local transportation?
There will always be pros and cons about moving to a new home, but the more informed your decision, the better off you’ll be.
As an objective third party, care managers can help families facing relocation. If we can help, please contact Brittany Fortmayer, by phone at 228-467-5900, or via e-mail at info@www.givingtreeseniorcareoptions.com.
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