Older couple standing in home with cardboard moving boxes behind them.

Moving to Abbey Delray Independent Living — What Can I expect?

If you’ve been to Abbey Delray, then you know what a vibrant community this is. From energizing group fitness classes in our fitness center and thought-provoking guest lectures in our Performing Arts Center to gallery excursions in the Pineapple Grove Arts District and lively food demonstrations with our talented culinary team, every day is full of possibility. Our residents are passionate about life and we are passionate about our residents. They are what make Abbey Delray such a special place to live. Whether you’ve been to Abbey Delray and are eagerly anticipating your move or are still weighing your options and want to learn more, we’re here to lay it out all. Here’s your step-by-step guide to moving into independent senior living at Abbey Delray.

1. Choose an independent living community

We understand that making the choice to move into a senior living community is a big, multi-faceted decision. From the more practical components like financial considerations and downsizing to the more emotional ones, like the worry or excitement that often accompany major changes, we know this is not a decision to take lightly. While our team and our residents will tell you how much we love Abbey Delray, we want to make sure our community is what you’re looking for. Our goal is to get to know you and understand your needs and desires, and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision. Schedule a tour — whether in-person or virtual — to get a better sense of our community. Evaluate floor plans, talk to residents and come in for a meal to truly get a taste of life here at Abbey Delray. And do the same for other retirement communities you might be considering — we encourage you to compare your options! If you’ve explored your options, talked to your financial advisor, family and friends and have decided that Abbey Delray is the senior living community for you, you might be wondering, “what happens next?”

2. Set a move-in date

Following the completion of your financial qualifications and assessments, our sales advisor will walk you through your contract and establish a move-in date on your new home at Abbey Delray. Then we’ll put you in touch with our move-in coordinator who will help ensure your space at Abbey Delray is set up according to your expectations and who will serve as a helpful and friendly resource through moving day and beyond. Our move-in coordinator’s primary goal is to make the move as seamless as possible for our residents. Whatever questions you might have about moving, the community or your new accommodations, we’re happy to answer them.

3. Prepare to move

With your closing date in sight, it’s time to prepare for the move to Abbey Delray. This might include big to-dos like getting your home ready to sell as well as smaller tasks like transferring prescriptions and filling out change of address forms. You’ll want to go ahead and schedule a moving company for the big day and begin the process of downsizing if you haven’t already. We know downsizing can be one of the most difficult parts of moving for many, and often one of the most emotional parts too. You might find it helps to keep the dimensions of your new home handy, so you can assess your furniture and belongings for fit. Your move-in coordinator can provide you with the exact dimensions of your space and even come to your home to help you evaluate what furnishings will work with your new floor plan. As you sort your belongings, remember that weekly housekeeping and on-call maintenance are included, so you are free from the burden of home maintenance and all of the tools and trappings that entails. We encourage you to be as ruthless as possible in parting with items that no longer serve you or won’t be needed in your new home. Inviting additional family members like your adult children to assist with this process can make it easier to decide what to keep, toss or donate. Moving anywhere can be a taxing process physically, mentally and emotionally. Allow yourself the proper time to pack, process and rest.

4. Moving day

Although springtime tends to be our busiest season, thanks to South Florida’s tropical climate, there’s never a bad time to move into Abbey Delray. On moving day, our move-in coordinator will help make arrangements at our community so that you and your movers can easily access parking and elevators so that items are unloaded expediently.

5. Make your home at Abbey Delray

In the hustle and bustle of moving, it can be easy to forget the few household essentials you’ll want on hand right away. We always advise keeping a few staples — like soap, towels, trash bags and toilet paper — easily accessible upon move-in. If your four-legged companion is making the move with you, keep their bedding, food and water bowls nearby as well, so they can settle in right away. Take your time to unpack and get comfortable in your new home. Don’t be surprised if your new neighbors or a few team members stop by to say hi — we’re excited to welcome you to our community! Even though you’re officially moved in, that doesn’t mean you have to say goodbye to your move-in coordinator. We’re always happy to see our residents or answer any additional questions that arise as you get comfortable in your new home. If you’re thinking about making the move to Abbey Delray, let’s talk. Fill out the form below or give us a call at 561-454-2000.