Moving into a senior living community for the first time can be a scary experience. You're leaving a place that's familiar to you, somewhere that you may have called home for many years, and coming to a strange new environment. While the movies may depict senior living communities with sterile walls and rooms devoid of personality, real life is quite the opposite. There's plenty of interaction, activities, and personalization. In fact, it's healthy for you to have your own belongings and personal effects showcased in your new space, and staffers will encourage you to individualize your home; after all, this place is your home.

To help you along your move-in journey, we thought we'd provide a few pointers on how to make you feel more at home in this new, unfamiliar place.

1. Fill Your Place with Photos

Family photos are a great way to bring the past into the present. If you have favorite family photos that are already in frames, definitely bring those, but this may also be a fun time to go through photo albums and find a few hidden treasures to display in your new home. too.

2. Include Personal Artwork

You may have a few artists in the family, no matter the age, skill level, or ability. Grandkids' finger paint pictures can really bring a bit of youthful exuberance into your new home. Along the same lines, if someone in your family is an amazing photographer, painter, or artist, consider asking that person to give you a few thoughtful pieces that can bring new life to your brand new space.

3. Bring Your Favorite Furniture

Although you're changing addresses, your new place is still your home, so it only makes sense to bring some of your favorite furnishings with you. Your furniture has likely become a part of who you are over the years, so take a page from your former home's stylebook and bring your most beloved pieces along for the journey.

If your new apartment isn't quite as large as your former home, pick a few choice items. Love seats, ottomans, chairs, and tables can add the perfect touch of familiarity as you find your way in your new space. If your new home is large enough, you should definitely consider bringing your couch, bed, and other furnishings.

Even the simplest of items can help you transition into comfortable living.

4. Add Accessories

Plush throw blankets and intimate shadow boxes also offer a great way to personalize your space.

Corral tiny trinkets into a display case that keeps everything organized.

Use quilts, afghans, or plush blankets to accentuate your chairs and living space. These items will do double duty when you get chilly, as you can easily reach for a comforting cover to snuggle up in.

5. Create a Space for Your Own Memories

You may prefer pen and paper, an iPad, or a laptop, but the end result is still the same. It's healthy to record your emotions, feelings, and stories. Set aside space in your new place that allows you to investigate your own emotions. Blogs and diaries are very healthy ways of dealing with change. If you're a person who enjoys recording your thoughts, having a space that's specifically designated to allow you to think and write freely will enable you to embrace your new home as quickly as possible. If you're new to the idea of journaling, a dedicated space may give you the tools necessary to learn more about your new adventure.

At 10 Wilmington Place, our residents' comfort, health, and happiness are our top priorities. If you'd like to take a tour of a senior living community that makes it a mission to make sure everyone feels like they're part of the family, contact our 10 Wilmington Place team today!