Making the Move to Senior Living (Be like a plant and Bloom!)

When I think of moving, I become overwhelmed and have to lie down to calm myself. I imagine it’s akin to how a houseplant must feel if we uproot it and then repot it in another pot. In the long run, it can be a wonderful decision to “replant” in a better container, or a larger one. But in the short term, the plant goes into shock, wilts a little, and needs time to adjust. Then—boom—it comes back to life, grows stronger, and blooms.

For many older adults, moving from a longtime home to a senior living community feels the same way. The idea of leaving the place you’ve loved for decades can feel overwhelming. Yet, just like that plant, a new environment—whether it’s an independent living apartment, assisted living residence, or retirement community—can offer fresh opportunities, safety, and a vibrant social life.

It’s important to remember that moving is one of life’s top three most stressful events, right behind the loss of a spouse or a child. When you combine the physical demands of packing and downsizing with the emotional task of letting go of belongings that hold a lifetime of memories, the stress multiplies. Add to that the well-intentioned pressure from adult children eager to “get the job done” quickly so they can return to their own busy lives, and it can feel like too much.

I understand this deeply because I’ve lived it. I’ve downsized and sold my own family home—a home that had been in our family since the early 1900s. It was one of the most difficult steps of my life and unlike any other move I’d ever made. But here’s the beautiful surprise: on the other side, in my “new pot,” I found a life full of possibilities, meaningful connections, and a renewed sense of purpose.

As we age, our rebound time is longer. We may need extra days—or weeks—to feel settled. That’s where Senior Living Kit comes in. My mission is to help older adults and their families navigate this transition with compassion, clarity, and step-by-step guidance. From downsizing tips and senior housing options to personalized placement advising, I help make the move less stressful and more empowering.

If you’re preparing to move—or helping a loved one—remember: feeling overwhelmed at first is natural. But with the right plan, support, and a little patience, you’ll find yourself thriving in your new space, ready to bloom again.