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Moving to a retirement community and leaving behind your former home is a big change that can understandably cause feelings of uncertainty. However, as we age, our homes, once familiar and comforting, can also become a burden, as mounting maintenance tasks become more difficult. At Windmere, the warm, welcoming environment helps residents easily rediscover the meaning of home in their new space, make new friends, and find comfort in the transition to their new chapter.

“For a lot of people in a big house all by themselves, it can get lonely and difficult to maintain,” said Carol O’Neill, a Windmere resident. “At Windmere, everything is taken care of and every need is met. We are a community and a family.”

Personalize Your Space

One of the first things you can do to make your new residence feel like home is to personalize it. At Windmere, you can decorate your living space to your tastes and personal style to make it feel more uniquely you. Add touches of your favorite color to your décor or place your cherished houseplants in your windows. Bring meaningful items to your new home, such as family photos, your favorite pieces of furniture and artwork, and treasured heirlooms, to surround yourself with fond memories and bring comfort.

Build New Connections and Friendships

A house is not necessarily a home – but the people in your community can make it one. Don’t be afraid to reach out and make connections with your new neighbors through organized events like game nights, fitness classes, or other social gatherings. These are great opportunities to meet new people with similar interests and build friendships. Remember, you’re not alone in this transition – many of your neighbors are also getting used to their new home, and forming bonds with them will help you feel supported and connected to your new community.

“Before I even moved in, I was at Windmere organizing my belongings when my next-door neighbor came to the door and invited me to tea,” said Carol O’Neill, a Windmere resident. “That was definitely my first indication of the whole experience here. I will never forget that. We sat, talked, and had tea, and that was the beginning. The people here become your family. It’s home.”

Create Routines That Bring You Comfort

While adjusting to change can be daunting, there’s no reason you can’t adopt many of your old, familiar routines in your new home. Taking your daily afternoon walk or keeping up with your favorite hobbies, like knitting or painting, will make your new environment feel more familiar and help you get settled quickly.

Get Involved in Activities

In addition to incorporating what’s familiar, embracing the new will also make you feel at home in your new community. Check out the events calendar for activities to get involved in that would bring you joy and fulfillment. At Windmere, we offer a range of options, including creative classes, fitness programs, and worship services. If there’s something you’ve always wanted to try or learn, this new chapter is the perfect time to explore it.

Make the Most of Your Independence

One of the benefits of moving to a retirement community like Windmere is the opportunity to maintain your privacy and independence while still receiving the support you need and having the opportunity to socialize and stay active. Taking charge of your decision-making, planning your own routines, and scheduling your daily activities will go a long way in making you feel adjusted and comfortable in your new home.

How Windmere Makes You Feel at Home

Windmere provides the perfect blend of comfort and care to ensure you enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle in a close-knit, home-like environment, where you can make friends easily yet still enjoy the same independence and privacy you had at home. The unique community offers an undeniable value: the physical and mental benefits of frequent socialization and activity, along with the security of health care services if you should ever need them, all at an unbeatable price point.

Some of the many benefits of life at Windmere include:

  • Cozy private accommodations that can be personalized to your unique tastes to truly feel like home
  • A dedicated team that’s ready to assist 24 hours a day
  • A robust activities program
  • Three delicious, homemade daily meals served in a warm, inviting communal space
  • Easy access to various levels of care if they’re ever needed

To learn more about life at Windmere, please call (973) 427-4087.

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