Home ▸ Blog ▸ What Should I Do While I’m On a Waitlist?

Joining the waitlist is one of the smartest decisions you can make when you’re getting ready for a move to a senior living community. It’s a decision that gives you confidence and allows you to move full speed ahead when the time is right. After you’ve secured your spot on the waitlist, what’s next? 

We have some ideas to help you prepare while you wait in anticipation of one of the most important moves of your life. Let’s walk through a list of things you can do while waiting for your dream residence to open up. From downsizing and planning your move to making trips to your new community and meeting future neighbors, there’s so much to do! 

Focus on Downsizing

The process of downsizing can take longer than you expect, so it helps to get a head start! This can be a great opportunity to take your time and break it down into smaller tasks, rather than trying to sort through everything at once. When deciding what to keep, give away, sell or toss, think about whether each item serves a purpose and enhances your quality of life. 

Moving from a home you’ve lived in for years to a smaller senior living residence can be a big change, but you have a lot to gain by simplifying your life and downsizing your stuff. You’ll find that having less furniture and fewer boxes can simplify your move. Check out our Downsizing Guide for more tips to help you get started.

Brainstorm Decorating Ideas

It’s time to imagine your new floor plan and get into the fun stuff — picking out new paint colors, planning room layouts, and shopping for décor. This is your chance to create a space that’s truly your own with personal touches that feel like home. You might decide to combine elements from your existing home furnishings with a few new pieces of artwork or furniture that are just right for the space. 

Research Tax Breaks

Did you know you may be able to get a tax break just for moving into a senior living community? For example, you may be eligible for a tax break on entrance fees when you enter into a Life Care contract in a CCRC (continuing care retirement community). The nonrefundable portion of an entrance fee is generally tax-deductible, because this is considered a prepayment for future health care services. In addition, part of your ongoing monthly service fees may qualify for the same tax deduction. Depending on your situation, you may also be able to deduct medical expenses like health insurance premiums, prescription drug costs and doctor’s visits. 

Researching tax breaks now can pay off later, when you’re ready to move. Meet with your tax advisor and/or financial advisor to find out which tax breaks you may be eligible for and how this may affect your financial situation.

Plan Your Move

Timing is everything when planning your move. If you’re planning to sell your home, your first step is to find the right real estate agent to help you stage and sell your home in today’s market. Once the timing is nailed down on the closing of your home, you can begin coordinating your moving day plans, including hiring moving services to help with boxing up and moving your belongings. Check out our full list of helpful tips for making the move to independent living.

Attend Senior Living Community Events

Joining the waitlist is a great way to experience community life, because you’ll have opportunities to attend community events and mingle with residents and others on the waitlist. Watch for invitations to special events designed to give you a taste of the delicious food, engaging social atmosphere, and fulfilling lifestyle of your new community. What better way to start meeting your neighbors? We encourage you to view our events calendar and join in on the fun!

Explore the Campus and Surrounding Area

While you’re waiting to begin the next exciting chapter in life, you can spend time exploring your new neighborhood and visiting parks and attractions in the local area. Drive around the area and see what’s near your future home, from movie theaters and museums to shops and restaurants. Start to imagine what your days will be like living in the community — where you’ll grab a cup of coffee, walk your dog, or go for a dinner out with friends.

Ready to save your spot at Lakewood? Find the independent living floor plan that matches your needs and join the waitlist today. Please contact us to schedule a tour or reach out with any questions you have about life at Lakewood. Our resident-centric culture will enhance your active lifestyle and is backed by LifeSpire of Virginia, an organization that’s been serving seniors for over 70 years.