This article originally appeared on reverbtimemag.com

Starting a new chapter in life can be an exciting time. Planning for your retirement is one of those times in your life when you need to consider not only where you want to live, but what you need to be secure in your new surroundings. Of course for some, remaining in their own home is an option. For others who decide to downsize and retire to an assisted living or retirement center, the change can be a new freedom to explore your options and restyle your life the way you want it.

There are some important things to consider when planning your retirement including the community you will live in, surrounding services that are available such as banks and salons, and convenient medical care. For those considering a move into an assisted living facility, picking the right place for you will make it feel more like home.

If you are familiar with the Lawrenceville area, consider checking out The Mansions at Gwinnett Park for independent living made with seniors in mind.

1. Independent Living

At The Mansions at Gwinnett Park, you have options for the style of living you are most comfortable in. If you are someone who entertains often, or has family members that visit, perhaps a free standing home for you and your partner would fit the bill. You would have plenty of privacy and space to move around with visitors. With your detached home in The Mansions at Gwinnett Park, you will feel right at home in your new abode, yet still have all of the amenities of an assisted living lifestyle with wellness and safety in mind, and no maintenance or repairs to worry you.

Looking for something a little smaller? Consider looking into a senior living apartment instead of a detached house. If a cozy apartment is more your style, there are options for you at The Mansions at Gwinnett Park as well. Still very private with floor plans to accommodate a variety of needs with the same generous amenities. Apartment living may mean that you are scaling down a little with your belongings, so if you have articles that you just can’t part with, check to make sure that there is ample storage space available to you.

2. Transportation

If you are still driving and intend to keep your vehicle, many senior living centers not only allow you to bring your vehicle, but offer units with garages, such as the units in The Mansions at Gwinnett Park. If you are depending on public transportation, or transport from your assisted living, be sure to look into the schedule for day trips and appointments. Check the local “walkability score” to know if the area you are looking at will be totally dependent on driving, or if biking and walking is feasible. Being able to access the surrounding community for shopping, medical appointments, or just exploring is a must for staying active and independently on the go.

3. Fitness

With wellness services onboard residents can be confident in their exercise choices while working out in a safe environment. With the inclusion of fitness programs many senior living facilities, such as The Mansions at Gwinnett Park offer wellness programs with one-on-one exercise sessions or group classes such as yoga, cardio, strength training sessions, and others. For the more active seniors in the bunch there is even volleyball, boxing, and soccer just to name a few, depending on your fitness level.

When considering your retirement living you will have plenty of free time without having to do time consuming chores if you choose a senior living center. Be sure to peruse the meal plan options and meet your needs. Many facilities today hire professional chefs and have carefully curated menus to provide you with exciting meal choices.

Today's senior living facilities offer pools and secure walking trails in park-like settings providing you resort style living. Some senior living communities even allow you to bring your beloved family pet with some weight and breed restrictions. The Mansions at Gwinnett Park even has a dog park for you and your best friend to spend the afternoon playing outside in the fresh air.

4. Socializing

Socializing is important after retiring when you are no longer making the daily commute to the office and seeing other people on a regular basis. Consider what kind, and how much social interaction you need or want. Social butterflies are sure to enjoy taking part in what the community calendars of senior living have to offer.

Are you more of a homebody, or do you enjoy being part of a group of friends for scheduled entertainment? Either way with retirement centers there are a host of options to choose from for solo activity such reading, or joining in a wide range of activities and interests from bingo to botany. The Mansions at Gwinnett Park have a posted calendar for the month with a full schedule to accommodate just about anyone, including a social hour for those who are inclined.

5. Medical Services

Be sure to know where medical and emergency services are located near you. For both regularly scheduled physician’s appointments and specialists make sure that you are able to see physicians on your insurance plan. In the event that you have a medical emergency does occur you will need to have reliable transportation and nearby services available to you. If you regularly need medical assistance you may consider moving to an medical assisted living center where more help is available to you in the form of medication assistance and help with your activities of daily living.

A New Beginning

With retirement this is your chance for a whole new beginning. You will now have the freedom to explore your hobbies and interests, or maybe even go back to school. There is a new world with exciting experiences out there waiting for you. If you are considering a senior living facility, or assisted living, consider checking out The Mansions at Gwinnett Park for senior living at its finest.