Moving into a retirement village is a big decision and so it's important to make your new home as comfortable as possible. Here are some helpful ways to settle into your Bupa retirement village:
1. Sign up for village van outings
Letting your village manager know that you'd like to go on the regular van outings will help with meeting your new neighbours in the village. Trying new and different activities will take you out of your comfort zone and spark lots of conversations with others. Van outings could be to the shops or to the beach and are a great way to make new friends. Some Bupa villages have a workshop so if you're handy with tools you may find others are too. If the village activities offered aren't what you're looking for, why not speak to your retirement village manager about starting your own club or suggest a different upcoming outing.
2. Make your new house your home
Your apartment or villa is your home and you're encouraged to bring those treasured belongings that you've collected over the years with you. Meaningful furniture or keepsake photos can make you feel right at home and make your new space a familiar one.
3. Entertain visitors and guests
Encourage your family and friends to visit your new villa or apartment. Regular visitors helps to keep routine and ensures your family and friends know they're just as welcome in your new home as they were in the old.
4. Keep to your routine
Following the same schedule that you had when you lived at home can help things to feel familiar again. Perhaps you have a regular bed time or a regular favourite meal. A routine can help you make you feel a lot more comfortable.
5. Setting a simple budget
Knowing how much you have to spend each week and how much you'd like to save can help you feel more secure and organised in your new home. A simple weekly budget can help you plan for those family birthdays, upcoming travel, outings or large purchases.