You’ve decided that it is time to downsize and move into a retirement community. Moving out and packing can be extremely stressful especially if you have lived in that house for many years. What are you going to do with all that stuff that has been accumulated over the years?
In addition to the time that is consumed, moving out can carry a high emotional charge. Deciding what to keep or leave behind brings back a ton of memory and feelings. Reliving significant memories can sometimes be painful, but can be uplifting and affirming too! The process of downsizing is a good time to intentionally go through meaningful items and relive those memories once again!
Here are five downsizing tips that you could use before your move.
5 Downsizing Tips
- Make a Plan
There will be days with high productivity and some days you would need for reflection. Mark out the days you would be productive and the days you would like to rest and reflect. In addition to that, you would want to define the goals for each day. Write down what you intend to do and call your friend for help if necessary. Get them involved early so that they would be ready to help.
- Start Early
Having to move to a new place and getting used to your new environment can be extremely stressful. Starting early and giving yourself plenty of time to pack can reduce the heavy emotions you may be feeling. Depending on the size of your home, start a week or two earlier to allow yourself to take things slow.
- Start Small
Start by decluttering a small area with the least emotional attachment, such as a laundry room or mudroom. This allows you to create a system for labeling, sorting, and packing. It would be easier to tackle larger rooms as you already have a system laid out.
- Organize Backward
A trick to downsizing is to pick out what you want to keep first and decide what you’ll do with the rest. This approach makes packing easier as you would know that no sentimental items are left behind.
- Eliminate by Room
Your new home may not have as many rooms as you have in your current home. You may not have a formal dining room, an office, or a guest room. Much of what you have may not provide any use when you move into your retirement community. Decide what you need and relocate different items and sell or give away the rest.
Senior Living at Morada Lake Arlington
Choosing to live in a retirement community promises many rewards such as a lasting foundation for extraordinary living. Downsizing to a community like ours at Morada Lake Arlington will allow you to have the time for fitness, socialization, lifelong learning, and fun. Our exclusive senior living programs help empower a carefree and enriched living. Remain active and be involved with social events that are scheduled daily!
If you would like to know more about our retirement community or would like to schedule a private tour, contact us today!
