A Seniors Story, Part 2 The Rest of the Story About Martha
Last month I told the story of a woman who had lived in her home for 50 years. Her husband had passed away five years previous to my visit. Martha shared her feelings of isolation, fear of her future, and feelings of being overwhelmed with a decision to move. She had become a prisoner in a home that previously afforded her with happiness and joy. Her health had changed to the point where the stairs were an obstacle, she couldn’t drive at night, and she felt afraid being alone.
Martha and I worked on a game plan to find new housing closer to her daughter, and better suited to her current and future needs. She was so reluctant to begin this process of downsizing from a 2500 square foot home to a senior apartment. Martha researched the senior housing market by talking to friends and relatives who had previously moved to a senior apartment or senior community. She narrowed down the location to a one mile radius of her daughter’s home. I supplied her with the Senior Resources Magazine which is a guide to almost all senior housing.
Martha found the perfect new home. It was a 1000 square foot apartment in a senior community, which afforded her security, comfort, and one level. She could walk to her daughter’s home.
The following are excerpts from a letter she sent me:
It has been a surprise to me that I am busier than I had been before! I now have joined an exercise class which I attend three times a week. I’ve made many new friends. Now that I am settled, I have begun entertaining again-something I enjoy very much. Most importantly, I am relieved that the trauma of breaking up a household is behind me and that it will not fall on the shoulders of my children-which was my main concern.’
There you have it! A story of sadness and fear turned into a life of hope, happiness, and security. Plan your future before it plans you! Take positive steps to enjoy your retirement years to the fullest!
Tags: becoming closer with sons and daughters, comfort, perfect new home, security, senior apartment