Making the decision to move into a senior living community is no small step. Many people wonder what life will really be like once they trade a house for an apartment in a community of peers. To help answer that question, residents from The Claiborne at Brickyard Crossing opened up about their experiences: the good, the surprising, and the joyful moments that make this chapter worth embracing.
Adjusting to Change
For Linda, an independent living resident, the hardest part wasn’t leaving behind her home in California. It was adjusting to the reality of being surrounded by people her own age. “It can be jarring at first,” she admits. “But after a few months, I realized that we were all in this together, and that was comforting… At this stage of life, I think most of us want most of all to feel secure and to enjoy friendships with people who get that aging is no picnic but doesn’t have to be boring or lonely.”
Her advice is simple: “Take honest stock of your physical and mental conditions and what you need to lead your best life. Downsizing may sound harsh, but it’s good. You can finally be a little selfish and focus on yourself.”
Linda is quick to add that friendship makes all the difference: “My best advice is to get yourself out there once you make the move. You can only feel at home if you make this place your home, and that means friendships, most of all. From Happy Hours to bingo, movies, and live music, there are so many opportunities to laugh, play, and share life with others. That’s when you start to feel like you truly belong.”
Finding Relief and Support
Other residents pointed out the sense of relief they felt once they moved in. Phyllis, now in assisted living, said she loves not worrying about medication or health issues. “The nurses and caregivers are all so friendly and nice. There is less stress, and I feel supported.”
Mary added that staff make all the difference: “You’ll make friends and have activities to do together. The staff are all awesome! I love my new friends and my new apartment.”
The Journey Together
Louise and her husband Joe moved into assisted living as a couple. She says, “Talk to yourself and come to terms with the reasons for having to move; it was the best for my husband but not for me. It was my choice to stay with Joe.”
Though it was not always easy, Louise found encouragement from those around her: “Familiarize yourself with the staff. Be open about how you’re feeling so that they know how to help you. After a couple of months, I knew the staff and got to really like them as people. They were my encouragement, my support, my direction during those last stress-filled months. God handpicked those girls for me.”
She says she treasures the time she and Joe shared: “The best part of living in assisted living was that we could remain together for the lifetime Joe had left. We were married for 67 ½ years.”
After Joe’s passing, Louise moved into independent living, where she continues to build friendships and embrace daily life.
Discovering Joy Every Day
Many residents highlight the surprising amount of freedom and fun that comes with senior living. From fitness centers and art rooms to swimming pools and game nights, there’s always something happening. Patsy, another resident, says: “You’ll make new friends, and you don’t have the responsibilities of owning a home. No yardwork, no cooking if you don’t want to. It’s wonderful.”
For Lainie, the biggest gift has been time: “I haven’t been this relaxed in years. My stress level is way down. The sooner you make the move, the sooner you can enjoy it.”
Advice for the Next Chapter
So what do residents want future neighbors to know?
- Don’t wait too long. Several people shared that moving earlier made the adjustment easier and allowed them to enjoy more activities.
- Be ready to socialize. Friendships are the heart of senior living. From happy hours to bingo nights, these moments turn neighbors into family.
- Choose the right community. Visit, ask questions, and meet residents. As Patti shared, “Talk to the people who live there. They’ll give you the best picture of what life is really like.”
Ready to Explore Senior Living?
Whether you’re considering independent living, assisted living, or memory care, Claiborne Senior Living communities are designed to give you both support and independence. From spacious senior apartments to engaging activities and personalized senior care, the goal is to help you thrive at every stage. If you or a loved one are exploring senior housing, we invite you to visit one of our communities and see what life here can look like. Friendship, fun, and peace of mind are waiting for you.
