4 tips on downsizing for seniors
Downsizing can be a stressful and emotional process for all involved. When it comes time to get rid of possessions, that one has kept a majority of their life, it can be difficult to let them go. Downsizing is necessary if it’s time to move to assisted living, a smaller house, or even a spare bedroom at a loved ones home. If you are still worried about the process we hope our tips on downsizing will help make things a little easier.
4 tips on downsizing for seniors:
- Give yourself a lot of time.
- Focus on one room at a time.
- Get rid of items that haven’t been used in the last 30-60 days.
- Donate what you decided not to keep.
Give yourself a lot of time.
The last thing you want to do is rush the process. Don’t get caught up in tossing items so quickly that you completely ignore your loved one’s feelings or wishes. It can be a very emotional process for someone who has worked so hard all of their life to have to get rid of most of their belongings. You will want to be sensitive to their feelings but also willing to explain why you are getting rid of certain items. Be understanding and don’t forget to put yourself in their shoes.
Focus on one room at a time.
As you are downsizing for yourself or a loved one, you will want to focus on one room at a time. Does where your moving have its own kitchen? If not, you don’t need any of your kitchen tools. Doing it this way should help alleviate some of the stress involved because if you know you don’t need to supply a bathroom due to moving to an assisted living facility than you can easily get rid of all those things at once.
Get rid of items that haven’t been used in the last 30-60 days.
We become very attached to our “things.” But, if you can narrow down what one really uses than you can make better decisions on what needs to be kept and what doesn’t. Old clothes, art, furniture, etc. if not used can be moved to the “donation” pile. It is important for your loved one to recognize that they no longer have a need to keep certain items, especially those that they may have an emotional attachment to.
Donate what you decided not to keep.
Now that you have figured out what you are going to keep and what you are getting rid of, finding a good organization to donate these items to may help the process go more smoothly. When you or your loved one understand that someone else may get some use out of these items, it may help with some of the stressors involved.
Always remember that if you don’t feel qualified or able to take care of your loved one, we can help. To learn more about our assisted living, long-term living, or rehabilitation services, be sure to give us a call at (937) 319-8924.
