Downsizing can bring up many emotions, and it’s only natural to approach it with some hesitation. After all, you’ve built up a lifetime of memories that mean a great deal to you. But while it may not be the easiest task, it also can be quite liberating. Once you’ve separated your most treasured items from all the things you may not even have realized you still have, you might just feel much lighter…and you can begin to be excited about where you are going!
The many benefits of downsizing for seniors:
Frees you to clear out the clutter.
Probably the biggest challenge is determining just what clutter is…as one person’s junk can truly be another person’s treasure! There are many ways to go about it, but simple is best. Dedicate a space where you can place undecided items and ask yourself:
- Do I need it or want it?
- Does it have sentimental value?
- Do I use it often?
- Do I have another item that performs the same function?
Remember, it’s okay to say you don’t need something anymore, even if it was a wedding gift from many years ago. You can appreciate an item and have fond memories, but let it go to someone else. That’s one of the biggest benefits of downsizing—freedom to shape your future, especially when that future includes carefree living in a modern senior living community.
You can start to envision how your new space will look.
Most likely you’ll have a pretty good idea of the space where you will be moving. Whether you’ve been able to actually walk through it, or have a detailed floor plan, you should be able to start getting a feel for how you want to organize your furniture and your possessions. The more you downsize, the more you can focus on what you will actually want to take with you, and how it will work together.
Empowers you to be a cheerful giver.
Letting go can be hard. But giving items to a charitable organization and knowing that there is someone who will really appreciate what you are parting with feels very satisfying and is one of the biggest benefits of downsizing. You’re being generous, and you’re helping recycle an item in the most positive way. With so many organizations willing to pick up your donations, giving is easy, and you can choose the one that is most meaningful to you. Donating is also tax-deductible.
Gets your important paperwork organized.
We all have that file drawer we’re afraid to look in…the contents are important but we have yet to really sit down and sort what’s the latest version, which documents to keep, which file should it be in and so on. The main goal is to keep anything that would be difficult or costly to duplicate, such as a car title, loan documents, and official documents, including birth and death certificates, mortgage documents, adoption papers, and other vital paperwork.
Downsizing lightens your load.
At the beginning of the downsizing process, it might feel a bit overwhelming with no end in sight. But as you progress, you’re going to start liking the feeling you’re getting—lighter, freer and more able to take a deep breath. Seeing closets empty, garages open up and shelves not be so cramped is a rare and special treat. In fact, it’s one of the best benefits of downsizing. Enjoy!
Gives you less to unpack.
As good as it feels to declutter your current space, think how much more enjoyable it will be to know there’s a lot less to unpack in your new senior living community residence! You’ll be able to move into your new home and really think about where each item will work best…with way fewer boxes to recycle!
Downsizing is just one of the things we can help you do. At Senior Star, we want you to join our community and live life on your own terms, filling your days doing what you love most. We’d love for you to schedule a tour so we can tell you more. And download our free guide: Should You Stay Or Should You Go: How to Decide Between Home and Senior Living. We are here to help you.