A Taste of What Is Next: Heron’s Key Expansion Wednesday September 24th

Working With a Senior Move Manager: Support for a Smoother Transition

Planning a move later in life often involves more than packing boxes. Downsizing, coordinating services, managing timelines, and deciding what to keep can make even a positive move feel overwhelming.

What many people do not realize is that Senior Move Managers specialize in supporting older adults through this process. They provide guidance, organization, and coordination to help make moving more manageable and less stressful.

What Is a Senior Move Manager?

Senior Move Managers are trained professionals who assist older adults through all phases of a move, from early planning to settling into a new home. According to trusted organizations like AARP, their role focuses on reducing stress while helping individuals stay in control.

Services may include:

  • Creating a personalized move plan and timeline
  • Helping sort, organize, and downsize belongings
  • Coordinating movers, donations, and estate services
  • Packing, unpacking, and setting up the new home

Unlike traditional moving companies, Senior Move Managers often remain involved well beyond moving day.

Why and When to Consider Senior Move Management

Senior Move Managers are trained professionals who assist older adults through all phases of a move, Moves later in life often involve longtime homes, years of belongings, physical considerations, or family members helping from afar. Senior Move Managers help break this transition into manageable steps and can be especially helpful for those who feel unsure where to begin or prefer to move at a comfortable pace.

Many people benefit from connecting with a Senior Move Manager earlier than expected, sometimes months before a move. Early guidance can reduce stress, support clearer decision-making, and lead to a smoother overall experience.

Starting Small With Downsizing

Downsizing does not need to happen all at once. Small, intentional steps can make the process feel far more manageable.

Helpful ways to begin:

  • Start with low-emotion areas like storage spaces or extra closets
  • Consider what your next home needs to support
  • Use simple categories such as keep, donate, gift, sell, or decide later
  • Allow time for reflection rather than rushing decisions

Senior Move Managers are trained to support this process with patience and respect.

Choosing a Senior Move Manager

Because this is a specialized profession, experience and credentials matter. The National Association of Senior & Specialty Move Managers (NASMM) offers a national directory of qualified professionals and clear explanations of services.

Learn more or search for a Senior Move Manager:
https://www.nasmm.org/find-a-move-manager/

Our Experience at Emerald Heights

At Emerald Heights, we’ve seen how Senior Move Managers can ease both the practical and emotional aspects of moving. Residents often share that having this support reduces stress, organizes decisions, and makes the transition feel more manageable.

Those who begin downsizing early, whether on our waitlist or in early planning stages, often experience smoother moves. Downsizing is a process, and having guidance along the way can make a meaningful difference.

Moving Forward with Confidence

Senior Move Management is a resource many people are surprised to learn exists. Simply knowing this kind of support is available can be an empowering first step.

At Emerald Heights, we encourage future residents to approach moving with patience, planning, and the right tools. Whether you’re just beginning to explore your options or actively preparing for a move, we’re always happy to share what we’ve learned and help point you toward trusted resources.

A New Year. A Smarter Plan for Your Future at Emerald Heights

As we begin 2026, a new year brings fresh opportunities to reflect, plan ahead, and invest in what matters most. For many, exploring a Life Plan Community is not just about making a move. It is about choosing stability, connection, and confidence in the years ahead.

At Emerald Heights, we believe thoughtful planning begins with clear information, open dialogue, and a long-term perspective.

Look Forward with Insight

As you consider your plans for the future, having the right tools and information can make all the difference. Resources like our Financial Assessment Tool are designed to help you reevaluate financial qualifications and explore which apartment floorplans may be the best fit for your needs. Our 2026 rates, now published, provide another important piece of the planning picture.

In 2026, Emerald Heights continues to offer multiple contract options, allowing prospective residents to choose the plan that best aligns with their financial goals and personal priorities. Our entrance fee structure remains competitive among Type A Life Plan Communities, while continuing to deliver long-term value through predictable costs, comprehensive services, and access to care.

Monthly service fee adjustments remain measured and consistent, supporting the ongoing strength of our community while preserving the financial predictability residents value. This thoughtful approach allows Emerald Heights to balance affordability, choice, and sustainability, ensuring we remain a strong nonprofit community for both current and future residents.

To provide helpful context, the charts below illustrate long-term trends in both entrance fees and monthly service fees at Emerald Heights.

History of Emerald Heights Entrance Fee Increases (2017–2026)

Entrance fees at Emerald Heights have increased an average of 4.4% annually since 2017, reflecting long-term planning and financial stewardship across varying economic conditions.


History of Emerald Heights Monthly Service Fee Increases (2017–2026)

Monthly service fees have increased an average of 4.7% annually since 2017, with second-person rates closely aligned to support shared services and community operations.

Understanding the Bigger Picture

Together, these trends highlight one of the key benefits of a Life Plan Community: pricing transparency and long-term predictability. While annual increases may fluctuate based on economic factors, Emerald Heights takes a measured, forward-looking approach that balances today’s realities with tomorrow’s needs.

As a nonprofit organization, Emerald Heights reinvests revenue directly back into the community. This supports campus improvements, resident services, and the long-term strength of our mission, helping ensure Emerald Heights remains a welcoming, thriving place to call home for generations to come.

Making Informed Decisions and Taking Action

Choosing where to spend your future years is a significant decision, and one that deserves time and careful consideration. Beyond reviewing rates, proactive steps can help you remain informed and well-positioned:

  • Joining the waitlist allows you to stay connected and expand your opportunities as availability changes
  • Remaining open to a range of floorplans can increase flexibility and reduce wait times
  • Staying in regular contact with our team ensures you have the most up-to-date information as you plan

With more older adults exploring senior living options and limited new supply coming online, planning ahead has never been more important. Life Plan Communities offer a distinct advantage by allowing residents to move in as independent individuals following a health assessment process, rather than waiting for a health event or urgent care need.

Looking Ahead Together

A new year is a time for possibilities and momentum. Whether you are early in your exploration or ready to take the next step, we would love to reconnect with you. Join us for a visit, enjoy lunch on campus, or attend an upcoming event to experience life at Emerald Heights firsthand.

There is so much to discover, and we look forward to showing you what life at Emerald Heights can offer in 2026 and beyond.

Giving Back to the Community: Emerald Heights Awards $305,000 in Grants to Local Nonprofits

At Emerald Heights, giving back is part of who we are. Each year, our Social Accountability Committee helps extend our mission beyond our campus by supporting local organizations that strengthen our community, enrich the lives of others, and further our mission of service.

This year, we’re proud to share that $305,000 in grants will be awarded to area nonprofits whose work reflects the same values we hold close, supporting older adults, strengthening communities, and creating opportunities to serve.

Supporting Our Broader Mission

Through this annual initiative, Emerald Heights dedicates time, talent, and resources to programs that:

  • Support seniors and the future of aging
  • Strengthen our local communities
  • Encourage resident and staff volunteerism
  • Further our broader mission of service

2025 Charitable Grant Recipients

We’re honored to recognize this year’s charitable recipients:

Through this committee, and thanks to the generosity and involvement of our residents, Board, and staff, Emerald Heights continues to live out its values of Integrity, Courage, Trust, Compassion, and Respect in meaningful, tangible ways.

We’ll be celebrating these contributions and the incredible work of this year’s recipients during a special awards ceremony on December 17th at Emerald Heights. These partnerships reflect our ongoing commitment to collaboration, compassion, and making a lasting difference in the lives of others.


Rooted in Nature: How Outdoor Wellness Thrives at Emerald Heights

At Emerald Heights, our 38-acre campus in Redmond, Washington, offers more than just beautiful views—it provides a daily opportunity to connect with the natural world. As we reflect on Earth Day, we’re reminded of the vital role that time outdoors plays in supporting overall well-being, from physical activity and fresh air to peace of mind and a sense of connection.

Nature That Nourishes
Whether it’s a walk among the trees, a quiet moment at a favorite lookout, or catching glimpses of Pacific Northwest wildlife along the trail, the natural beauty that surrounds us at Emerald Heights offers something unique for everyone. These everyday experiences are more than enjoyable—they’re deeply beneficial. Studies have shown that time spent in nature can help reduce stress, boost mood, improve cardiovascular health, and even enhance memory.

Our campus was intentionally designed to incorporate access to nature at every turn. Residents can choose how they engage—from social walks with friends to solo strolls for reflection and grounding.

Stewards of the Land: The Nature Trail Crew
None of this would be possible without the dedicated residents behind our Buildings and Grounds Interest Group, and especially our Nature Trail Crew. This resident-led team has developed and now manages over a mile of walking trails on campus, with a focus on preserving the native landscape and maintaining accessibility for all. Their hands-on efforts have created a peaceful, enriching space for everyone to enjoy.

Their work is a reminder that wellness isn’t just something we experience—it’s something we build together.

Simple Ways to Connect with Nature
Whether you’re just starting your wellness journey or have always loved the outdoors, here are a few ways to stay grounded and connected with nature at Emerald Heights:

There’s always something new to discover on the trail—and always a reason to step outside and enjoy the moment.

  • Take a daily walk. Even 10 minutes outside can lift your mood and improve circulation.
  • Pause and observe. Take time to notice the sounds, smells, and sights around you.
  • Practice mindful breathing outdoors. A few deep breaths can help reset your mindset.
  • Bring a friend. Socializing on the trails adds connection to your time in nature.
  • Explore the seasons. Each part of the year brings something new to appreciate—from cherry blossoms in spring to the vibrant leaves of fall.

Looking for more local outdoor inspiration? Visit the Washington Trails Association to find hikes near you and tips for staying active outdoors. You can also explore National Institute on Aging’s guide to exercise and physical activity for older adults .

Celebrating the Outdoors, Together
At Emerald Heights, nature isn’t just a backdrop—it’s part of our culture and wellness philosophy. On this Earth Day and beyond, we celebrate the beauty that surrounds us and the residents who help care for it.

Want to learn more about senior living at Emerald Heights and how we integrate outdoor wellness into our community? Contact us to schedule a visit and see our beautiful trails and campus firsthand.