Leaving a long-term home and moving into senior living can be emotionally draining and extremely difficult for most seniors—it comes with many changes, including a significant reduction in the living space. Downsizing can be a challenging process if you don’t know where to start.
Check out these useful tips for downsizing to senior living.
Start Early
Just the thought of packing up all your belongings in a few days can be overwhelming. Start small and give yourself plenty of time to organize your belongings and start the moving process.
One-Year Rule
When you move into senior living, you need to get rid of things that you no longer use. You may not need your CD player or a baking dish that has been collecting dust in the closet for a long time. Separate your common-use items into things you regularly use and those you haven’t used in the past year. Donate or sell the things you don’t use.
Declutter
Thanks to technology, all your photos and videos can be stored on electronic devices or online storage drives. Consolidate duplicate photos, negatives, and videotapes into organized electronic devices. This is also a great way to preserve memories for a long time safely.
Consolidate Collections
Even though receiving the best Grandpa/Grandma mug every year makes you feel special, it can take up a lot of shelf space. Just keep the two mugs you use regularly, take pictures of the rest, and create a keepsake photo album.
Preserve Things With Sentimental Value
It’s okay to keep certain things, such as the first painting your grandkid made or the souvenir from a favorite vacation if they have a lot of sentimental value. Keep the things that have such an emotional connection and get rid of the rest.
Donate Things
Donate things that you no longer need to a thrift store or charity. This way, you can sit back and feel good knowing that your possessions will make someone so happy.
Maintain a Positive Outlook
The thought of adapting to a new environment can be scary and stressful. Instead of reminiscing about the past, focus on the new life ahead of you. Plan how to decorate your living space and make it feel like home.
If you are looking for a comfortable and friendly senior living community, contact Dellwood Gardens for more information or to book a tour of the facility.