Change can be hard, especially when it comes to leaving a home full of memories. But what if change could also bring freedom? At Buena Vida Estates, we believe that retirement is a time to thrive, not just settle. One powerful way to make that happen is to rethink the idea that you have to stay in one place forever. In fact, experts suggest that re-evaluating your living situation every 10 years can be one of the best decisions you make during retirement and can help you downsize with intention.

The “10-Year Rule”

Harvard professor and “happiness expert” Dr. Arthur Brooks recommends a meaningful life shake-up every decade. For retirees, that change often comes in the form of a move that better fits their current needs and future goals.

Why? Because what worked at 55 may not feel quite right at 65 – and certainly not at 75. Reevaluating where and how you live is about staying in control, not waiting for a crisis to force your hand.

Practical Reasons to Move Every 10 Years

Living in the same home for decades often leads to accumulating clutter – both physically and emotionally. A move prompts you to:

• Declutter your space and lighten your load
• Downsize with intention, freeing up equity and reducing expenses
• Improve safety and accessibility with single-level layouts and thoughtful design
• Eliminate home maintenance stress that gets harder with age

At Buena Vida Estates, we hear it all the time: “I should’ve done this sooner.” Moving to a Life Plan Community offers a sense of relief, not just because of the services, but because of the emotional weight that’s lifted.

The Emotional Impact of Proactive vs. Reactive Moves

Waiting until a crisis hits (like a health scare or loss of a spouse) can lead to rushed and emotional transitions. This can cause what researchers call relocation stress syndrome (RSS), which includes anxiety, sleep issues, confusion, and physical decline.

But when you move on your terms, you avoid that stress. You give yourself time to:

• Emotionally detach at your own pace
• Sort and pack gradually
• Choose a community that aligns with your lifestyle, not just your needs
• Look forward to what’s next

Trends Back It Up

While many Baby Boomers say they want to “age in place,” studies show that 1 in 3 eventually move due to:

• Proximity to family
• A lower cost of living
• Social connection and lifestyle amenities
• Healthcare access and future care options

Younger generations like Gen X are expected to follow similar patterns, with downsizing with intention becoming a core retirement strategy.

What’s Right for This Decade?

Every decade of retirement looks a little different. Early retirement may be about travel and freedom, mid-retirement may bring more health considerations, and later years may call for care and support.

A Life Plan Community like Buena Vida Estates grows with you – offering independent living today, and higher levels of care if ever needed.

You’re not just finding your “last home.” You’re choosing a home that fits your life right now, with peace of mind for the future.

Don’t Let Your Home Outgrow You

It’s easy to stay put out of habit. But the best homes are the ones that serve your life, not the other way around. If it’s been a while since you asked yourself, “Is this still the right place for me?”

Now may be the perfect time to take a fresh look.

Schedule a tour of Buena Vida Estates to see how our Life Plan Community helps you live more freely, confidently, and joyfully – not just for the next decade, but for every stage of your retirement years.