Bruce Nemovitz

Last month's article dealt with the question, 'What are the most positive changes you see in the future?' The most prevalent answers were: health advances, disease control, medical advances, and prescription insurance. Staying connected, reading books, taking classes, and exercising, were some of the activities that will keep one both healthy and able to take advantage of the many advances in our very near future.

This month's article deals with the question, 'What have you heard most often from your friends and relatives who have made the move to senior housing?' This question was presented to over 700 seniors, ages 65-80 years of age. There were no choice of answers presented in my survey.

Seventy-six percent (76%) of those surveyed answered positively about statements they had heard from their friends and relatives who made a move to senior housing! An overwhelming majority were extremely happy they had made the move from their long time home to a senior community. Some of the statements elaborating their answers included: Moving gave me relief from duties at home, lifestyle improved, made many new friends, chores and meals were prepared, travel and fun without worrying about the home, and most striking, should have done it sooner! That last statement 'Should have done it sooner ', is heard throughout the senior community. I've heard that statement so many times that it is important that it is shared with as many folks as possible.

Twelve percent (12%) of those surveyed stated they were not satisfied that they had made the move to senior housing. Twelve percent (12%) were unsure or had no opinion. Some of the negative comments of those respondents were: The new home was too small, it was hard to adjust to downsizing, had too much time on hands, and circumstances made their decision. The last statement, 'Circumstances made their decision', is the hardest situation for one to go through, as a professional as well as the one experiencing the dilemma of a health or financial downturn. Waiting too long to make a move is so sad, because in most cases, the move could have been made when the health situation was manageable. Financial decisions, such as selling the home to free up a rather significant asset, could have been done while independent, and in a healthy condition both physically and financially. Even more heart-breaking is watching the children or care-givers making decisions for the senior who is no longer in control of their moving situation. Why wait for 'circumstances' to make such an important decision, when one could enjoy and be an active participant in a move to better one's situation both physically and financially.

It is critically important to take a realistic view of one's current situation. Remember, over 76% of those surveyed are happy they made the move. They wish they had done it sooner. So why are so many seniors frozen in a situation that is unhealthy and lonely in many cases. The fear of the unknown, the fear of change stops so many of us from enjoying the benefits of our hard work for so many years. We hear our friends and relatives sending a message of satisfaction, yet we allow fear to overtake a decision which we know would both benefit us and allow us to reap the rewards of our life's work.

I recommend the 'Ben Franklin' assessment which is taught in so many schools across the country. Take out a piece of paper and make two columns. The title of the first would be, 'Reasons I (we) should make a move. The title of the second column, 'Reasons I should not make a move at this time'. Do not do this alone. It is best to involve your spouse or trusted advisor. They can help you to be objective. They know you and can help better answer by being on the outside.

After the two lists are completed, put the paper away, until one or two days later. Then, review the lists. The answers, as well as the amount of answers will heavily favor one over the other. You will also be able to see which answers are realistic, and which are excuses or rationalizations. You want to cross out any answers that you know are not true to your situation. Now you have a sense of what you are truly thinking and feeling. The answer to the question, 'Could a move in the near future benefit me physically, mentally, and emotionally' will seem obvious. Now it is time to make a decision to begin your search for new housing, or remain in your current situation. Only you can make this decision. Only you can know if you are truly happy, and enjoying your home.

Only you can decide whether or not you will grab all of the gusto of life, or stay in a 'comfortable' situation, that can change very quickly and unexpectedly.

Next month's article will deal with the question, 'What are four main reasons we procrastinate in making a decision to move to a better lifestyle?'

By Bruce Nemovitz, Certified Senior Real Estate Specialist, Certified Senior Advisor. Bruce and his team can be reached at 262-242-6177 or email at: Bruce@BrucesTeam.com