For seniors considering a move to a senior living community, the thought of downsizing from a longtime family home to a smaller living space can seem daunting and emotionally complex. Rather than waiting for perfect conditions to downsize your home, opt for a simplified approach to ensure a successful transition to your new community.
In this article, we’ll discuss how to identify what’s most important, consider your timeline, involve family members in the process, reduce clutter, and set goals for continued progress.
Identify What’s Most Important
Identifying what’s most important in your home may seem like a big step, but a simple list can be a helpful guide through the downsizing process.
Remember, you are the curator of your new space! When moving to a more efficient living space, you will want to carefully select only the items that will serve you best.
- Think about your favorite things – items that bring you joy and comfort and evoke a feeling of home.
- Set aside your favorite pieces, such as artwork, table décor, lamps, books, and a few family treasures.
- When choosing furniture, keep in mind the floor plan and dimensions of your new home and be willing to reconsider when necessary if a piece doesn’t fit your layout.
After assessing these items, adopt a flexible mindset. Use your list as a guide but be willing to make changes as needed to create a safe and comfortable home that reflects your life and uniqueness.
Consider Your Timeline
Considering the timeline for your move is an important next step in the downsizing process.
When is the best time to downsize when planning a move to a senior living community?
This will depend on the individual and any friends or family members who will be assisting with the process. Timing will need to be coordinated with plans for selling the family home and the move to the community. Below are two options to consider:
Downsize BEFORE your move: Residents assess their current living space and decide what to bring to their new home. Moving arrangements are coordinated and family members are often recruited to assist with the move.
Advantage: The bulk of the downsizing process is done before the move, allowing the resident to focus on the transition to their new community, making friends, and enjoying community life. It may also speed up the process of selling the family home.
Downsize AFTER your move: Residents identify only the necessities for making the move to a senior living community and revisit the downsizing process once they are settled in their new space.
Advantage: Some individuals rely on family members to manage the downsizing process and make decisions about what to keep, give away, or discard. This option allows a focus on the new lifestyle rather than the stress of downsizing during the transition.
Involve Family Members in the Downsizing Process
Involving family members in the downsizing process can be a great source of support to seniors when making a move to a senior living community. Asking family members for help can offer relief, important advice, and perspective.
What family members/caregivers should know: During the downsizing process, it’s reassuring for a loved one to know their belongings are staying within your family circle. While you don’t have to feel obligated to keep everything mom or dad offers, saying “yes” to a few cherished items can ease uncertainty for your loved one.
What seniors should know: Keep in mind some of the items that are important to you may not have the same importance to your children. Family members may not have the space or desire to keep large pieces of furniture or fragile collectibles, and that’s okay. Offer items to your loved ones as you wish but be understanding if they politely decline.
Setting aside a room with items for family members to browse at their convenience allows relatives to take pieces they like or need without pressure. Loved ones may enjoy selecting an item with family significance.
Recognize & Reduce Clutter
Clutter around the home comes in all shapes and sizes but doesn’t always have to end in the trash. Set aside boxes and bags and begin to sort through one room at a time with the intention to give, donate, recycle, and discard.
Commit to being generous and letting go of things others can use and enjoy.
- Contact local community services agencies or a Goodwill store to donate clothing, household, or miscellaneous items.
- Some organizations like The Salvation Army or Habitat for Humanity offer the option to schedule a donation pickup and will accept select furniture items,
- Books can be donated to your local library or thrift store.
- Paid services will haul your junk items and pass them along to a good cause.
Remember Small Steps = Progress
Keeping your moving timeline in mind, plan to take small steps each day to reduce clutter. Remember – the downsizing process is like packing a suitcase for vacation. Packing light with the right mix of necessities and best-loved items can ensure an easier, more enjoyable travel experience. The transition to your new senior living community should be an enjoyable one!
By setting attainable goals and relying on the expertise of family and friends throughout the move-in process, you’ll have the support you need for a successful transition to community living.
Contact us today.
If you or a loved one is thinking about downsizing or exploring senior living options, we can help! Contact us today to learn more about Edgemere’s award-winning independent and assisted living options, downsizing resources, and preferred local partners for ensuring a successful transition.
Schedule a tour and visit our premiere senior living campus in the heart of North Dallas. See how community living can offer the vibrant lifestyle you or your loved one is looking for.
