HOUSING: Independent/Retirement
Sell Retirement Lifestyle to Your Skeptical Spouse Things can get tricky when one of you wants to simplify and the other wants to stay put. How do you get your partner to come around to your way of thinking? For some, senior living means the start of a new life chapter—a chapter with more time for hobbies, exercise, activities, learning and socializing. Others hold to the misconception that senior living means giving up freedom. With honest communication and some gentle persuasion, you can help open your spouse’s mind to the advantages of a new lifestyle. Start the Conversation Why doesn’t your spouse want to move? Are they unaware of what independent living really looks like? Acknowledge your spouse’s concerns. Reminisce over the happy memories and empathize with their anxiety. Then, steer the conversation toward solutions. Tour a few senior living communities so both of you can experience the environment firsthand. Get packing and moving estimates to show your partner how affordable it is to relocate, easing the stress of the move. Paint a Picture of How Your Partner’s Life Could Be “You’ll have more time to ____ .” Fill in the blank with whatever hobby your partner enjoys. Share that both of you will be able to spend your free time pursuing learning, traveling, training for a charity bike ride or maybe even indoor skydiving. Now’s the time! Show Your Partner the Opportunity for Possibilities You’ll have many new opportunities such as participating in group activities, game nights, group travel outings, volunteer programs and exercise classes. You’re bound to meet energetic, like-minded people. Soon, you’ll know more than enough foodies ready to join you at that new Italian restaurant across town. Now is the time to begin the conversation about the retirement lifestyle you’ve always wanted.
Sponsored by: See ad on Back Cover
78
SRGTEXAS.COM
