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A Step-by-Step Planning Process for Choosing the Right Living Arrangement
Making the right housing decision in retirement is one of the most important—and personal—choices you’ll face. It’s not just about bricks and mortar. It’s about how and where you want to live as you age, and how that choice supports your independence, safety, relationships, and overall well-being.
This decision requires balancing a wide range of factors:
- Emotional ties to your current home and community
- Physical needs that may change over time
- Financial realities and long-term sustainability
- Personal goals for lifestyle, connection, and care
You may be asking:
- Should I stay in my current home and make modifications?
- Should I move to a different home that better suits my needs?
- Should I transition to a senior living community?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—but there is a process that can help.
This 12-step guide offers a clear, structured approach to help you explore your options with confidence and clarity. And while this journey is deeply personal, it’s not one you should take alone. We encourage you to involve trusted family members, friends, and advisors early and often. Their insights and support can make the process smoother and more empowering.
Step 1: Start with Your Vision – Defining What Quality of Life Means to You
Before making any decisions about where or how to live as you age, it’s important to pause and reflect on what truly matters to you. Aging in place isn’t just about staying in your home—it’s about living in a way that supports your well-being, independence, and sense of purpose.
A personal vision statement can help clarify your priorities and guide your decisions. It becomes a touchstone you can return to as you evaluate options, make changes, and communicate your wishes to loved ones and care providers.
How to Write Your Vision Statement:
- Reflect on Your Core Values
What brings you joy and purpose? What do you value most—independence, connection, creativity, spirituality? - Envision Your Ideal Day
Where are you living? What are you doing? Who are you with? How do you feel? - Consider Your Needs and Preferences
Think about physical comfort, social interaction, access to nature or hobbies, and support with daily tasks. - Identify What You Want to Avoid
Are there situations or routines that would feel isolating or limiting? - Write It Down in Your Own Words
It can be a paragraph, a list, or even a letter to your future self. The key is that it feels authentic to you.
Sample Vision Statement:
“I want to live in a place where I feel safe, connected, and respected. I value my independence, but I also want to be close to people I care about. I enjoy being outdoors, reading, and attending community events. I want to stay active and engaged for as long as possible, with support available when I need it. My home should be easy to navigate, filled with light, and reflect who I am. I want to age with dignity, surrounded by kindness and purpose.”
Use the Vision Worksheet to Get Started
We’ve created a simple, guided tool to help you reflect on your obstacles:
📄 [Download the Aging in Place Vision Worksheet]
Taking the time to write your vision statement is a powerful first step. It helps you stay focused on what matters most and ensures that any changes you make—whether to your home, your routines, or your support system—are aligned with your values and goals.
Want the Full Guide Now?
If you’re ready to dive deeper into all your housing options without waiting for the full blog series, you can download the complete workbook today. Navigating the Next Chapter: Housing Options for Seniors in Transition is packed with expert insights, practical worksheets, and step-by-step guidance to help you or a loved one make confident, informed decisions.
Click here to get your complimentary copy now.
About Forevermore Homes
We’re the Forevermore Homes Team of Coldwell Banker, and we’re passionate about helping seniors and their families make confident, informed decisions about housing and care. Whether you’re modifying your home, downsizing, or exploring senior living options, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
