Transitioning into your retirement village: how to prepare for the move

What is required to best prepare, and what you can expect from retirement living

Moving into a retirement village can be a big decision and an emotional time, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation, you can ensure that the change is smooth and enjoyable.

With this handy guide, you'll be well-prepared for the big day and have a taste of what retirement living looks like.

How to prepare for the move

Click here to download the printable version (opens a PDF 94KB in a new window).

• Get to know your retirement home
Familiarise yourself with the layout and features of your new home. Start thinking about how you'll arrange your furniture and personal items, as well as what to keep and what to let go.

• Declutter and downsize well before your move-in date
Moving house can be emotional for many reasons. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time to sort through sentimental items. This a great opportunity to downsize your possessions to what is truly important. Temporary storage is a great solution if you have items that you don't need right away. Keep important documents safe and at hand. Finally, make a moving checklist along the way.

• Professional retirement moving services
Moving can be tiring but there are companies, often referred to as downsizing specialists, which specialise in helping people move into retirement villages. They can provide guidance on downsizing, sorting, archiving photos and documents, pet sitting, packing, unpacking and all the heavy lifting for the moving day.

• Financial advice and planning
It is recommended to seek professional financial advice so that you have a clear understanding of fortnightly and monthly fees in your new community, along with any other expenses, such as move-in costs, legal fees, and downsizing expenses. An expert can help you work out those costs and offer help on the best way to structure your finances for the future.

• Notify important people
Let people know about your decision. This includes family, friends, medical centres, Australia Post, banks and other relevant services. Give them the address and contact information for your retirement community.

• Plan for transportation
Consider how you'll get around your retirement village and local neighbourhood. Will you be driving, using public transportation, or relying on community transportation services? Make sure you have all the information you need to plan for your transportation needs.

• Get to know the community
Find out more about the services, activities, and amenities provided. Learn about their rules and regulations. Attend any events or open houses to get a better sense of the community and meet your future neighbours.

• Talk it over
Discussing your plans with friends and loved ones will help alleviate any concerns and make your move as easy as possible. Talking it over with people who have made a similar transition can also offer a comforting and insightful perspective on what lies ahead

By following these steps, you can ensure a smoother transition into retirement living.

Download the printable version of 'How to prepare for the move' (opens a PDF 94KB in a new window).

What to expect from a retirement village in Brisbane

Freedom from maintaining a large house, the opportunity to make new connections and find companionship, or being able to travel knowing your home will be safe and secure... there are many reasons why you might decide that a retirement village suits your needs now and in the future.

One comment that we often hear from new residents is they “should have done it sooner”.

The specific offerings can vary from village to village, however, at Wesley Mission Queensland, you can expect a supportive community of people around your age and a variety of amenities and services that cater to your needs.

Our premier retirement communities in Brisbane feature communal areas for socialising and for recreational activities, and access to healthcare services. We can offer housekeeping, transportation and other in-home care and community services.

Moving into a Wesley Mission Queensland retirement community has been one of the best decisions I have ever made. Although initially daunting, retirement has been a joy!

– Mary, resident at Wheller on the Park, in Chermside

Talk to friends who have gone through a similar experience or book a tour with us and hear from residents in communities you visit. They can help you better understand what life is like and what is involved.

Give it a go, come and have a look, and you'd be pleasantly surprised how nice it is.

 – Sue, resident at Rosemount Retirement Community.