Have you ever heard of the “fresh start effect?” Researchers have found that people are better at tackling goals or new challenges when they start on moments that stand out in time. What does this mean for seniors? If you’re looking for a better way to transition into the next phase of your life, it might help to consider a change of scenery for a fresh start.
Whether you are recently retired, dealing with the loss of a loved one, or looking to get a new outlook on life, a change of scenery can be a great way to revive your zest for life. Relocating later in life has its benefits, and it could make transitioning a lot easier to handle, no matter the circumstances.
After losing a loved one, many people seek positive ways to channel grief. Traveling is a great way to get out of your environment and away from the emotional triggers and memories that make it hard to move on.
Being away can help you process and cope with grief easier while also helping you make new memories and connections that can provide a healthy perspective. Relocating later in life can allow you to finally breathe, heal and start living your life again.
Whether you choose to move closer to your family or somewhere entirely new, relocating later in life gives you a chance to meet new people who have similar interests or shared hobbies. By becoming active in a new community, you can find new passions and interests that will lead you to form new relationships.
Socialization becomes more important as you age, and if your spouse has passed away or friends in your neighborhood have started to move away, it’s easy for loneliness to set in. By getting a fresh start in a completely new state, you can make new friends and find purpose in local community groups, religious organizations, cultural centers, or volunteer opportunities.
Living in the same place your entire life makes it easy to fall into patterns and routines. Living this way can cause you to lose a little of yourself over time. And, once your children grow up and move on or your significant other passes away, you may lose some of your identity. Instead of trying to pick up the pieces, it might be best to get a fresh start somewhere new.
When you are on your own, you can explore your values, interests, and opinions on life. You’ll find yourself challenged in ways you forgot were possible and get to make choices and decisions that help you learn more about who you are.
A fresh start doesn’t have to be a burden when it comes to moving. You can make the process more manageable by hiring movers, downsizing to a smaller place with fewer expenses, and by choosing a location that is tax-friendly for older adults.
When you’ve lived in the same house for 20, 30, or 40 years, the idea of starting over can be overwhelming. But, staying in place after a loved one passes, after your children grow up, or after you retire can limit your potential. While it’s normal to want to stay in touch with your memories and past, it can make it difficult to fully embrace what’s next.
A change of scenery is about more than just downsizing or relocating later in life – it’s about a fresh start, a new adventure, and a renewed zest for life that will keep you feeling younger and healthier for as long as possible.
Ready to start looking for the perfect place to start your next chapter? Upside is turning the idea of traditional senior living on its head. Learn how our team can help you select a perfectly curated apartment that caters to your lifestyle now and as you grow older. Talk with an Upside team member about a change of scenery.
Upside Corporate Headquarters
6365 NW 6TH Way, Suite 200
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309
