Change is hard for everyone, moving from the comfort of your home is no exception.
The world of Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRC) can be hard to navigate. The first step in moving to a retirement community usually involves a tour or meeting with a team member. Here are some tips to make your tour - and ultimately your transition - go smoothly.
1. Relax and Organize Your Thoughts
Going into this change can be nerve wracking and that is okay! Try to take a deep breath. Before you come in for your tour, take a second to decompress. Try to organize your thoughts either in your head or on paper. We understand this is a big discussion. Ask yourself: What is it that you want? What is it that you don't want? What are you looking for? What matters to you most?
2. Remember: A Tour is Not a Commitment
Understand that taking a tour does not commit you to making the move. We want to make sure Saint Mary’s is a good fit for you! There is no pressure for you to make the decision to join our community the same day of your tour or even the same month. We want you to make the commitment on your terms and your timeline.
3. Bring a Support Person
No matter the person or relation to you, bring someone you trust along with you on your tour. It helps to have someone there. They might notice something you didn't or think of questions that you would not think to ask! It's also helpful after your tour to have someone you trust to talk to after your tour to make sure you understood everything.
4. Bring a List of Questions
Coming into the tour with pre-written questions will help you stay on track! It is easy to get overwhelmed and forget the questions you wanted to ask when you are given so much new information and exploring a new campus.
Possible questions might include:
- What are the community reviews?
- What kinds of amenities are offered?
- What services do I have access to?
- What is included in the fee and what isn't?
- Are pets allowed?
- What is the dining experience like? Can I see a sample of the menu?
Bring a pen and paper to help remember the answers and to make notes along the way!
5. Keep an Open Mind
We know that most people would prefer to live at home, but we believe that we can be your home away from home. The Saint Mary’s community wants nothing more than for you to be comfortable and happy! It can take a few months to adjust to something new - so keep an open mind and know that we'll help you every step of the way.