Surviving the 'Terror' of Moving to a 55+ Community

Professor Stone Oakley

Embrace the "horror" of selling your home and moving to a 55+ community—it's not that bad!

By Professor Stone Oakley

 

So, you’re scared of selling your house and moving to a 55+ community. Well, congratulations! You’ve successfully joined the legions of people terrified of change, even when it’s the best thing for them. But don’t worry—this isn’t some life-altering decision like what to order for dinner or which Netflix show to binge. It’s just the rest of your life we’re talking about!

 

 

 

Oh No, Not New Opportunities!

Yes, we know: the thought of leaving your home filled with 40+ years of stuff you definitely still need is horrifying. Who could part with that stack of old phone books or your collection of VHS tapes you’ll never watch again? But, hey, why focus on the exciting new opportunities waiting for you in a 55+ community when you could cling to the past like your beloved 1992 recliner? Sure, you could meet new friends, enjoy low-maintenance living, and join a community where someone else mows the lawn. But, you know, stay trapped in that outdated house—it’s super cozy in there!

Downsizing: The Horror!

Downsizing is just a fancy word for “getting rid of stuff you don’t need,” which, of course, is utterly terrifying. Why would you want to downsize when you could continue dusting rooms you never use? But here’s the catch: once you do it, you’ll find yourself marveling at how not having 14 closets full of forgotten belongings actually feels like freedom. Imagine—more time for leisure activities and less time vacuuming the cobwebs out of the attic. But sure, fear of a simplified, clutter-free lifestyle is a totally valid reason to stay put. Totally.

Social Life? Ew, No Thanks!

If there’s one thing we know, it’s that nobody really wants to have fun. The mere thought of joining a 55+ community with regular events, clubs, and new friends sounds like an absolute nightmare, right? Who wants to play pickleball, attend social events, or even relax by the pool? (Spoiler: most people, but not you, of course. You’re above all that.) Honestly, staying isolated in your current neighborhood where everyone you know has already moved away is clearly the superior option.

“Just Do It”? How About “Just Panic”!

We get it, change is hard. But hey, waiting for the perfect time to sell your house and move is the most foolproof plan, because that “perfect” time will never come. Instead, let’s keep procrastinating until you’re 98, and then wonder why you didn’t move sooner. Genius.

Or… you could try something new, embrace the fear (which, spoiler alert, is mostly in your head), and “just do it.” Yes, that’s right—sell the house, make the move, and start living the easy, fun, carefree life that a 55+ community offers. Worst case? You’ll be forced to spend your days lounging by the pool, attending happy hours, and being surrounded by friendly neighbors. Oh, the horror.

So, just rip off the Band-Aid, stop making excuses, and leap into this next phase of life. You'll thank yourself when you’re not knee-deep in yard work and actually having fun for once.