Skip to Content
TT + -
← Back to News & Blog

Moving Tips for Seniors: Should You Move Closer to Your Kids?

Get moving tips for seniors here.
Should you move closer to your kids?

Moving Tips for Seniors: Should You Move Closer to Your Kids?

For some people, living near their grown children is ideal. For others, it’s better to have some separation, even if it’s only an hour or two drive. Each family is different, but how do you know if you should move closer to your kids after you retire?

When we share moving tips for seniors, we’re often talking about downsizing the home, whether or not moving to a continuing care retirement community (CCRC) is the right choice, or the pros and cons of senior living. But if there’s a CCRC closer to your children and you’re seriously considering moving there, let’s talk about when the signs point to making the move.

Signs You Should Move to a CCRC Near Your Grown Children

Regardless of where you call home, it’s up to you whether you should move closer to your kids. But the other part of the equation is whether you should move to a senior living community located closer to your kids. It might be a good idea if:

  • Your kids live in a town you like. When you move to a CCRC, you’re going to want to get out and about and enjoy the surrounding town. Make sure you like the location. Is there a bustling downtown area with shopping and dining? Is traffic reasonable? All of the answers to these questions should be taken into consideration.
  • Your children and their spouses are supportive of the decision. This is a major factor to take into consideration. You want your family to be supportive of your decision to move to a CCRC near them. Otherwise, there could be friction, drama, and you may feel the move wasn’t worth it. Talk to your kids and make sure everyone is on the same page about the pros and cons of moving.
  • Spending more time with your kids and grandkids will be a delight, not a responsibility. If you move closer to your kids, will you turn into their go-to babysitter? If the answer is “yes” and you’re OK with this, then make the move. But if the answer is “yes” and you’re not OK with it, or even have reservations about it, you may want to reconsider moving closer. You should maintain your own free time and social life outside of your family, and if taking care of your grandkids will negatively affect your well-being (as well as your relationship with your kids), it may not be the right time.
  • Nearby support will be helpful. Moving to a CCRC means you’ll have support from neighbors, staff and medical services right in your own neighborhood. But it’s also helpful to know your children will be nearby to assist you if needed. It’s always nice to have a loved one stop by and check on you from time to time. If your grown children are willing to do that, moving closer to them could be a wonderful opportunity to see them more often.
  • Closer proximity to your kids will bring you more joy. This is probably the biggest sign that you should move closer to your kids. Retirement planning is the perfect time to find the places, people and things that bring you happiness. If one of those is your grown children and grandchildren, then you most certainly should do what you can to be near them.

Schedule a Tour at the Atrium at Navesink

Any major life transition comes with some uncertainties and doubts, and downsizing your home and moving closer to your grown children is no exception. But let us help you settle your doubts through an in-person tour, which will help you see for yourself if The Atrium is right for you. Schedule a visit with us today.

Need information? Right this way.

outdoor area at The Atrium at Navesink Harbor

Let’s connect.

If you have questions or comments about The Atrium at Navesink Harbor, we’re here to help.

  • *Required Information

    By submitting this form you are agreeing to receive emails about events, offers and news.

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Don't worry! We won't share your info.
view our privacy policy