Now that you have some time on your hands, you’d rather spend it watching whales than on your knees in the garden. So, what do you do to downsize on the chores?

You could move in with the kids. After all, it’s their turn to be caretakers. But most likely, in a few months you’d rather have your weeds back instead of the never-ending commotion, courtesy of the couple’s friends, teen-agers and other such sociables.

For some seniors, moving into an apartment building is the answer. No more lawns to mow, no more peeling paint to worry about, and the leaky roof become someone else’s problem. It may be tough to part with all those special things you’ve amassed over the years — but the peace of mind makes it worth it.

If you’d rather let regular housekeeping be someone else’s problem as well, or like the idea of living in a more social setting, consider independent retirement communities. Living arrangements vary, but some communities offer individual cottages complete with full kitchens, carport, and laundry appliances, and even Jacuzzi tubs. These communities usually have a variety of group activities, transportation, and beautiful grounds that someone else maintains. Some have swimming pools, complete gym and spa facilities, and other luxuries, even golf courses — but you may have to move more than a few miles away.

If your health is failing and you may soon need help with daily activities like bathing, or prefer not to cook and worry about dishes, you may need assisted living. Many such communities offer complete independence, comfortable accommodations, social activities, and little conveniences like hair stylists and gyms within easy reach.

There are so many assisted-living options, that you will need to do a bit of homework. Visit, visit, visit. Is the staff friendly? Are the meals delicious? Does the building look homey? Do you feel safe? Do you have complete privacy? Are you still close to family? Are visitors welcome? How about pets? Depending on your needs and preferences, you’ll have to ask lots of questions. Don’t ignore the financial side, either. Can you afford to live there? Will you need to own a car, or is transportation to appointments and shopping available?

If you or your partner has medical needs, you’ll also need to check the qualifications of the medical staff and any limitations on the care they can provide. While some facilities can accommodate progressing medical needs, others cannot — will you be willing to move again when your needs change?

Several Kitsap and Pierce County area retirement centers have all the choices in one campus, from independent to assisted and even dementia care. Moving within the campus is much easier once your needs advance — and you are already comfortable with the settings and staff.

The Kitsap County Consolidated Housing Authority also offers a variety of housing choices, including some currently under construction and others in the planning stages. If their selection doesn’t suit your needs or lifestyle, they can serve as a resources to point you in the right direction.

The same holds true for the Bremerton Housing Authority and the Kitsap County Area Agency on Aging.

And don’t forget, there’s always the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), which offers resources on all phases of retirement.

If you are a single military veteran, you might want to check with the VA It’s possible you may qualify to live in a veteran’s center such as the one currently under construction at Retsil.

Moving out of a home you love is not an easy choice, but you don’t have to make it alone. Talk with your family members, trusted friends, or others in you situation. Unless you have some urgency, take your time to choose. After all, once you find a new place to hang your hat in, you’ll want to worry about those whales, not your newly found home.