Author: Mary Shannon
Reviewed By: Maria Alfano-Huggins
Becoming an empty nester often comes with mixed emotions. As your children grow and forge their own paths, you may find yourself yearning for their company or wishing to provide support when needed. One way to maintain those precious familial ties is to move closer to your adult children. While relocating can be an exciting endeavor, it’s crucial to approach it with a well-thought-out plan.
Commonly Asked Questions
What are three common characteristics of an empty nester?
Many empty nesters lose their sense of purpose once their adult children leave the homestead. They can also experience sadness and anxiety.
Should empty nesters move?
Moving is not mandatory nor should anyone encourage you to move if you are not ready. Surveys have shown the older adults prefer to stay in the home they know and love until they just can no longer manage it.
Do life get better after the kids move out?
This is a subjective question as it depends on who you ask. Some older parents feel that they have done their duties in raising responsible adults and are ready for some quality “me” or “us” time. Others begin to feel lonely and wish they had their old life back with a house full of kids and their friends.
Advice for Empty-Nesters Moving Closer to Family
The children are gone and you are left home alone or with your significant other. Now what? What are your plans for the near future? Have decided what to do in the long term once you are no longer able to sustain your current lifestyle? Below are six essential steps that will help you make a smooth transition when empty nesters want to move closer to their adult children and their families.
1 – Talk to your grown children
When considering a move closer to your adult children, it’s essential to involve them in the decision-making process. Engage in open and honest conversations to gauge their receptiveness to the idea, and discuss how you envision your relationship dynamics playing out. Aligning your expectations with theirs is key to ensuring a harmonious and mutually beneficial arrangement.
2 – Check out potential neighborhoods
Once you have your children’s blessing, begin exploring the neighborhoods where you might want to move. Tour different areas, drive around to assess proximity to amenities, and spend some time in local parks or coffee shops to get a feel for the community. Assess factors like safety, walkability, and overall vibe, keeping in mind your long-term needs and preferences.
3 – Spending plan for relocation costs
Relocating can be costly, so it’s crucial to plan your finances. Create a comprehensive budget that includes all expenses associated with the move, such as real estate fees, professional moving services, or home modifications. Don’t forget to factor in the cost of living in your new area, as this can significantly impact your monthly expenses.
4 – Lookup local services
Proactive planning is the key to aging gracefully. Research local services like housekeeping, personal care aides, meal delivery, or transportation services that may be useful as you grow older. Being aware of the available resources can give you peace of mind and ensure that you have the necessary support if needed in the future.
5 – Find a senior-friendly residence
As you search for a new home, consider features that cater to potential mobility or accessibility challenges. Look for properties with single-story layouts, no-step entryways, wide doorways, and bathrooms with grab bars or walk-in showers. Additionally, evaluate the home’s outdoor space for low-maintenance landscaping that reduces the need for strenuous yard work.
6 – Create a housewarming party plan
As empty nesters, moving closer to your adult children is a significant milestone that deserves to be celebrated. Once you’ve settled into your new home, plan a housewarming party to share your joy with family, friends, and new neighbors. To make your event special and unique, give this a try: use online tools to create beautiful digital invitations that can be easily shared via email or social media. A housewarming party not only fosters a positive outlook but also facilitates social integration into your new community. Your children will appreciate your effort, and your new neighbors will get to know you better.
In Summary – Empty Nesters Moving
Becoming an empty nester is an inevitable chapter in the life of a parent. Moving closer to your adult children is a beautiful way to nurture familial bonds while embarking on a new phase of your own life. By taking the time to consult your children, find a senior-friendly home, plan a celebratory housewarming party, and more, you’ll be well-equipped to make a smooth transition. As you embark on this journey, remember to embrace change, cherish the moments shared with your loved ones, and enjoy this enriching chapter of your life.
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All images from Canva