Downsizing Secrets for Seniors

Many seniors consider downsizing in their golden years. You may be looking to simplify your lifestyle, cut costs, move closer to your loved ones, or even address medical needs. However, even if your home feels a bit too big now, saying goodbye to the place you built your life is never easy, and neither is decluttering it. Moving can be both emotionally and physically stressful, but it does not need to be overwhelming. Follow these steps to make the downsizing transition easier for you.

Step 1: Determine Location.

The first step in moving on is to determine where you are moving to. Take into consideration factors such as mobility and agility restrictions, caregiving needs, location in proximity to family, and your budget when you begin searching for your new home. Once you have a better idea of what your next living situation looks like, you can plan how much decluttering and downsizing needs to be done before moving. Several seniors choose to remain in independent living situations, buying smaller, more accessible homes and selling their current. If you find yourself planning to move before your home sells, however, consider exploring resources such as FHA loans, to obtain a second mortgage without having to meet the same requirements of conventional loans. Doing so could help maintain your financial resources, which you might use to fulfill newfound lifestyle goals such as exercising a new interest or traveling.

Step 2: Declutter & Organize.

It is amazing the number of things you can acquire in life. From closets full of linen to snow globes from every family vacation, addressing what to do with it all can feel emotionally draining. Remind yourself that these are your memories and it is okay to acknowledge the loss you may feel. Consider making only “Yes” and “No” piles to sort your belongings—no “Maybes.” The downsizing process can tug at your heartstrings and “Maybe” piles run the risk of growing larger than the other two. When this happens, you are not making any real progress in sorting. To work through the hard choices, ask yourself these questions:

• Do I need it?
• Does it have significant, sentimental value to me?
• Do I use it often?
• Do I have another item that would perform the same function?

Step 3: Rehome your Items.

Once you have decided to let go of some of your belongings, you may be wondering what to do with them next. Hosting a yard sale is a great way to make some extra money while quickly finding a new home for your things. If you would rather donate your items, consider locating your nearest charity or church. Some of these organizations will even pick up boxes directly from your home.

Step 4: Say Goodbye.

Just as you had to say goodbye to some of your belongings, the time will come to say goodbye to your home, as well. You may feel a sense of nostalgia, fear, and even sadness. Change is hard. However, in order to help you adjust to a new environment easier, experts recommend downsizing early. Looking forward to a new environment can help ease the transition. Focus on the positives, and appreciate how much simpler life will be with fewer surfaces to dust, rooms to clean, or towels to wash.

Step 5: Make the Transition.

Once you have completely packed and moved, take some time to familiarize yourself with your new surroundings. This may help you feel at peace with leaving your lifelong home and building a new one. To settle in quickly, try meeting your neighbors. Establishing a connection early on can help you feel at home in the area. Another option is to get involved with your new community. Take advantage of social events to meet people or consider a new hobby to keep you out and about.

Downsizing is not easy for anyone, but with proper planning and organization, you will have a relatively hassle-free transition. All that will be left is time to start enjoying your new, low-maintenance lifestyle.