Downsizing is not always easy but preparing in advance will help you move to a smaller home or a retirement community when the time is right. Sorting through many possessions—a lifetime of memories—can be an arduous, emotional chore. The thought of downsizing can make people uncomfortable, but the process does not have to be daunting because; it doesn't mean you have to throw everything away.
Downsizing can simplify your environment, creating a safe and stress-free atmosphere. This process has several advantages that can help reduce the perceived workload and help you feel more at ease in your home. You will be surprised when you realize many of your belongings are NOT, in fact, essential to "hold on to." Trimming down the items that are not needed, sentimental (rather than functional), or old/used will allow you to live more comfortably.
The first step is to familiarize yourself with your new floor plan and square footage so that you can decide on the furniture pieces you wish to keep.
You have to consider which items will fit, which is true for household items like glasses and silverware. If you take advantage of menu choices or meals offered in most retirement communities, you will not need different cups and plates. It's always best to create a list as you go through every room to keep an inventory of what you have and what you require. You have to decide what to keep, what to toss, what to donate, and what to gift, as these categories will help you downsize fast.
If you have not used an item or looked for it for over a year, it's best to let it go. You can also ask yourself a few questions, like whether you need to keep the item at hand or if you think a family member or friend would enjoy it. If there are items that you wish to pass on to your relatives, why not gift them now rather than later? This applies to memorabilia and oversized items. Many who "declutter" opt for a storage rental; however, this is simply passing off the decluttering to another member of your family in the future and increases your monthly expenses.
You must tackle the process of downsizing one room at a time so that you don't feel overwhelmed. It's very natural to feel sentimental as you deal with emotions about past events. Don't feel like you have to do this all in one day; you can systematically downsize one room at a time. Always remember that the result will be worth it.
Working with a professional, experienced team will also help make downsizing much easier for you. At Alivio Solution, we specialize in seniors' moving service to help you feel relief from the stress and clutter while reducing your contributions to landfills. You can always rely on our team if you require help with decluttering or downsizing. We can help you make an easier transition to a clutter-free home. If you're looking for more information on downsizing your home or need to speak with an experienced professional, contact us today—we are happy to help!
