We’re all familiar with the childhood story of Goldilocks. The “too small, too big and just right” is the perfect metaphor to describe the journey of homeownership. When we’re starting out, our house might be too small for our growing family, so we move to one that’s a better fit. However, once the kids move out and start families of their own, suddenly the house can feel too big. So how do you adjust to this new normal and find an option that fits your life AND lifestyle better?
Many older adults find downsizing to a senior living community to be just right for the next chapter of their lives. Rather than focusing on how big a home is, think about how it would impact your time. Consider how being around friends, having access to the outdoors and being able to exercise are all proven mood boosters, while cleaning, maintenance and chores can be more of a drag.
How Much Space Do I Need?
Many factors go into determining what is a good sized house for you and your needs. Today’s senior apartments are thoughtfully designed to maximize efficiency and storage. That may mean you can fit more than you expect into a smaller residence. To help you estimate how big should your house be, consider the following questions:
What furniture will you bring, and will it fit?
Measure your sofa, bedroom furniture and other large pieces you plan to take with you. Knowing how much square footage you need and figuring out how to arrange your furniture can help you choose the best floor plan. However, it’s important to remember that not everything will fit, which is why downsizing your belongings is so important.
How much do you plan to entertain?
Do you need an additional bedroom for out-of-town guests, or do you plan to host dinner parties and other large gatherings with family and friends?
Do you need space for an or hobby?
It’s important to make sure both you and your partner have the space you need to enjoy your hobbies. A second bedroom or den can always be turned into an office or craft room.
Will you need extra storage space?
Will your personal belongings fit in your senior apartment’s closets and storage areas, or will you need a second bedroom for additional storage? Some communities also provide personal storage lockers.
Our Amenities Can Help Expand Your Living Space
At Reata Glen, our 60-acre beautifully manicured campus offers water features, serene open spaces and walking paths. You’ll also find an array of services and amenities to provide you with an even bigger lifestyle than you ever imagined.
- Dining: You won’t need a stand-alone dining room or lots of kitchen storage. At Reata Glen we have multiple dining venues, including an elegant dining room, a casual dining option with a patio and daily happy hour, our country club casual grille and a grab and go café.
- Hobby areas: At Reata Glen, you can explore your creative side in our art studio or woodworking shop. We also have pickleball and tennis courts, a garden center and more.
- Fitness center: If maintaining your physical fitness is important to you, we have a fitness center with trainers, a heated swimming pool and daily strength, balance, cardio, yoga and tai chi classes.
- Maintenance-free lifestyle: Free yourself from all the chores of home ownership. You can downsize your lawn tools. Here, you won’t need a mower, trimmer or blower because our talented team handles all the landscaping to keep our community looking great. We also have housekeeping and flat linen service and will take care of your senior apartment’s maintenance.
- Room to entertain: Getting together with friends and family is an important part of everyone’s life. That’s why our retirement community has inviting gathering spaces including a private dining room for hosting family celebrations.
See How Big Life Can Be at Reata Glen
Check out our floor plans and then make plans to come see for yourself why we’ve been recognized as the best retirement community in Orange County three years in a row. Contact us to schedule your personal visit.
