Downsizing Tips for Seniors

Moving into a smaller space or simply decluttering for seniors can be quite the chore. Whether you’re downsizing your home to make space or downsizing for retirement, we’ll provide you with all of the tools you’ll need.

What is Downsizing?

Downsizing is when you move into a home smaller than the one you currently live in or when you simply want to declutter your existing living space. This can make it so your daily life has less upkeep and keeps costs low. Furthermore, it can make it easier to move in with family members for home care, if needed.

Next up, let’s take a look at how to downsize.

Downsizing List for Seniors

How will you begin your downsizing plan? To prevent it from becoming overwhelming, it’s important to have goals in mind before you get started. Here is a list of things to consider when downsizing for seniors:

• Why do you want to downsize? Is it for easier maintenance, health issues, or something else? If you’re honest with yourself, it will help you deal with overwhelming emotions from moving or get rid of previously beloved items.

• How will you keep organized? Will you donate your items to people in need? Will you create piles of “yes” and “no”? Coming up with a system will prevent potential confusion.

• If you’re moving, what is the size of your new living space? Do you require certain amenities? Plan the downsizing around these specific accommodations. For example, if you like to write at a desk every day, be sure to keep the desk.

• Will you need moving professionals or storage space? Sometimes moving can be overwhelming and could require professional assistance to transition. If you have the resources, consider hiring professional help or invest in a storage space for leftover belongings.

Finally, we will review some final tips to help with decluttering and downsizing for seniors.

Downsizing Tips for Seniors

Here are some final pieces of downsizing help for seniors:

• Start early. The process will take much longer than you anticipate.

• Baby steps. You may have years of things to sort through. Sift through your smaller belongings and get rid of those first.

• Stay in good spirits. Reminiscing can be painful sometimes and it is OK to take breaks when emotions overwhelm you. Only perform tasks when you have a positive attitude.

• Think about your future living space. If there are certain rooms you will no longer have in your new home, focus on getting rid of belongings in the room you will be losing first.

• Put things into storage. Are you unsure about whether to get rid of something and the deadline to move is approaching fast? Put your belongings in storage and figure out what to do later.

• Research the market value of items you’re discarding. If you’re planning to sell anything, be sure to know the proper price. Get appraisals and set fair prices.

• Donate. If your items can be better suited to others, give them away, Research different charities in your area, or give items away to family members who may find a use for them.

• Give legacy gifts early. Is there a prized porcelain doll you plan to pass on to your grandchildren? Consider giving it away earlier than you plan to.

• Reminisce. A lot of memories will come flooding back as you start looking through belongings. Turn it into a bonding activity with loved ones to make memories together.