Relocating to a new home is quite the process, and it can be a little scary, especially long-distance moves for seniors. Moving can be particularly demanding due to a lifetime of accumulated belongings and emotional attachments. Older adults often need support services that meet their retirement plans and changing needs, provided by trained, compassionate caregivers.
The new community’s location is also important – that’s why so many people retire in states with warm temperatures and abundant natural beauty. The Bluffs of Flagstaff offers a picture-perfect setting in Northern Arizona and lifestyle options that meet seniors’ needs. Flagstaff is also one of the country’s most tranquil, sought-after retirement destinations.
We know that moving is often a difficult decision and our team is committed to making it easier for potential residents and their families. Below, we share advice about making a move to Arizona, why it’s such a magical place, and moving tips.
Why Seniors Love to Retire in Arizona
Arizona is truly a remarkable place. Its diverse landscape, from serene deserts to picturesque mountains, offers seniors endless recreational opportunities and scenic beauty. And for a small city, Flagstaff has a vibrant cultural scene, with interesting shops, sporting events, and concerts.
Arizona is also appealing because of its relatively affordable cost of living, ensuring financial security during retirement years. The state is also committed to senior-friendly outdoor activities, quality healthcare services, and has thriving retirement communities.
Arizona is Tax-Friendly for Seniors
Arizona has low-income tax rates, especially for Social Security benefits and pensions. Additionally, there’s no inheritance tax. The state offers a moderate sales tax rate, with exemptions for groceries and prescription drugs, easing financial burdens for seniors.
Advice for Seniors: Moving Tips to Make Life Easier
Moving is always a step-by-step process best accomplished with a clear plan. These tips will put you on the right path to a successful transition in the best possible place.
Approach Downsizing With an Open Mind
Downsizing can be difficult, but it’s important to purge belongings before moving because it will save you time and money in the long run. Even if the new residence is larger than the old one, there’s no reason to keep items that are not used or needed.
Here’s an excellent tip that makes downsizing easier for seniors moving to Arizona; you may be familiar with this process. Divide the belongings into four categories:
- Keep
- Sell
- Donate
- Throw away
We recommend doing this with a family member for objective feedback; that way, the ‘keep’ pile won’t be unmanageable. Have an open mind when building the piles, allowing for items to change places. Remember, people form strong emotional attachments to their belongings and may be unwilling to part with certain items.
Packing and Labeling: You Don’t Have to Do It All Yourself
The next step of preparing to retire in Arizona involves packing and labeling. You can save money by sourcing supplies like big cardboard boxes from grocery stores and other outlets. The boxes should be clearly labeled for easier unpacking.
Many resources are available to older adults who are moving, including senior moving companies, senior move managers, and online calculators that can help with budgeting.
The Bluffs of Flagstaff can assist with relocation services by connecting you with professional senior move managers and offering moving assistance. Our associates can offer plenty of other tips, like asking for receipts when donating belongings to charitable organizations and finding a trusted local pharmacy near the new community.
Choosing the Right Community
Now that you understand how to plan for a move, let’s consider senior living options in Arizona State. Choosing the right community is key when relocating, so research different areas to find one that fits your lifestyle and needs.
The Bluffs of Flagstaff is a resort-style senior living community with assisted and independent living on Butler Avenue in beautiful Flagstaff, Arizona. We offer a wide variety of amenities and activities, and our proximity to the Grand Canyon also makes us the perfect place to call home – the views here are phenomenal.
Here are some of the other exceptional amenities that our seniors enjoy:
- Upscale, pet-friendly apartments with comfortable floor space plans
- Spacious lobby, common room, and clubhouse
- On-site salon
- Activity room
- Library
- Fitness center
- Indoor heated pool
- Putting green
- Interior courtyard
- Outdoor garden areas
- Walking trails
- Dog yards and dog spa
- Garages and covered parking
- Did we mention the mountain views?
Next Up: Housewarming Gifts
Once you or your loved one has settled into an Arizona retirement residence, well-deserved treats are highly recommended. Subscription boxes are a great way to christen a new home on or after moving day and everyone likes them – they’re a thoughtful way to show that you care and seniors particularly appreciate them.
These great gifts contain curated selections of products tailored to different interests and hobbies, like:
- Books
- Food
- Beauty products
- Puzzles
- Crafts
These tips will help with your Arizona moving experience and if you have any questions, The Bluffs of Flagstaff team is always here to help. We’re happy to answer any of your relocation services inquiries; this is the peace of mind our resort-style senior living community provides.
Let Us Help You Relocate to Arizona
Passion Is Our Purpose, and our senior move specialists will gladly assist you through every step of the relocation process. Contact us to learn more about our resources for move management and a fulfilling Arizona state retirement.
