There are many highs and lows associated with downsizing, no matter what stage of life you’re in. To be as prepared as possible to ensure a smooth downsizing process, there are a few things that can be done. Planning for downsizing can make all the difference. The following are 5 of the best tips to follow when you’re planning to downsize.
Remember to Focus on the Positives
Whether this is a long time coming or it is more of an unexpected change in plans, the potential emotional and physical challenges involved with downsizing should not be underestimated. For both seniors in transition and their support systems, the entire process can be a bit daunting. This is why it is important to focus on all of the advantages of downsizing during every conversation on the topic and throughout each step of the process.
These advantages may include ridding unnecessary stress caused by maintaining such a large area, and the financial repercussions of doing so. And, downsizing helps to ensure residents are in safe surroundings while also cutting the costs of living.
When To Downsize
Even if downsizing is agreed upon as the best course of action, there may be differentiating opinions on the timing of when it should occur. While the act of retiring often catapults individuals into the idea of downsizing, it is not the only suitable time to do so. There may be other life events that come into play, such as health issues, housing, and utility costs, or the loss of family/support that make downsizing a more pressing matter.
Therefore, while the best-case scenario would offer a lot of time to properly plan and execute a minimally stressful experience, sometimes, this merely isn’t possible. Regardless of when or how it comes up, open communication is key. Working together to have a clear goal and plan will help to keep everything going smoothly. Thus, allowing all participants to process the idea, event, and accompanying changes properly.
Plan Accordingly
Once you have an official downsizing date, it’s time to get on top of everything that needs to be done. One of the best things to do when planning for downsizing is to create a goal timeline.
What needs to be done before the big day and how much time will it take to accomplish it? Look at the move-in date and work backward, taking into account how long each step may take while allowing for some extra “buffer” time. This is especially true if you are moving out of state and if the trucks will need to be loaded ahead of time. Or, if individuals are coming in to help, they will need to have time to adjust their schedules as needed.
This is not the type of event that should happen on a whim and having a plan that is agreed upon by everyone involved is critical to ensuring a smooth progression.
Agree On A System
Try to remember that no matter what kind of time restrictions you may have, it is best to take it slow and not overwhelm yourself in a rush to get things done. It would be wise to come up with a system that everyone is comfortable with for each stage of the process. This system will look different for each person as there are several components involved. With this being said, a few points should be addressed which include the following.
Consider The New Space
In most cases, downsizing will involve a new space with different dimensions, utilities, amenities, and accommodations. It is important to factor these changes into your planning, as it may affect what can be included in the move.
Size
When going from a three-room home to a one-bedroom apartment, there will be a clear difference in available space. Therefore, the number of items that will fit their new space will be limited. At this stage, the emotional attachment to items may make letting go of said belongings difficult. There are a lot of changes happening! It would not be conducive to making it easier if we were to fully change what they are used to.
While we don’t want to create resentment towards the new home, (ie. “I wouldn’t need to get rid of anything if I wasn’t moving/downsizing”), it is important to remain realistic. Create a list of the items that will benefit and enhance their lifestyle in the new surroundings. Not only will this help to declutter and eliminate items. It will also help to slowly enter the “reduce, recycle, rehome, and donate” mindset.
Another aspect of this is whether or not a separate storage space may be needed. In many circumstances, it is a costly expense and becomes yet another area that is filled with items. Items that are often eventually forgotten about. However, there may be items that simply cannot fit the new space and cannot be kept safely elsewhere. This may include things like important papers, memorabilia, or larger items. In this case, a climate-controlled storage space may provide some form of emotional relief, even if for a temporary period.
Layout
With how difficult it may be to leave the current home, adding personal touches that feel like home can help. One way of creating a more familiar place to move into is to replicate the layout. Of course, unless the new living quarters are identical, this will be quite difficult to do.
To make the transition easier, it is best to attain a floor plan and be as prepared as possible. By looking at the dimensions of the space, one can see if recreating certain characteristics of the room is possible.
Is there space for a favorite chair or sofa to be put in a similar position? Can the bureau be put in the same practical spot? Are there walls free for shelving or for photos to be hung? Will the bedroom have ample room for a bed and storage? Is there space to safely keep any aids that may be needed such as walking assistance tools?
Creating an inviting and comfortable space is quite high on the priority list. However, in an even higher position is the health and safety of the occupant. Will the layout be practical while also being as safe as possible? Are there any hazards that should be moved to create a more free-flowing space? All of these points need to be taken into consideration when planning the layout of the home.
Downsizing Assistance
Downsizing is an event that needs to be well-planned to limit the upheaval. At times, planning for downsizing can unfortunately seem just as difficult as the act of downsizing itself. However, with the proper amount of planning and time to adjust, it can thankfully be a less stressful experience.
With the help of professionals at My Ideal Move, downsizing can be done in an organized manner. As the only NASMM A+ rated Senior Move Management company in Northeast Florida, we are trusted to be the efficient, organized, and detail-oriented team you need.
During our free consultation, we will discuss your plans and desires to ensure that we can help to the utmost of our abilities. We want you to understand every step of the process. This way, you know you are in as much control as possible while having the proper support.
After receiving a customized move plan from your move manager, we will handle all of the work involved. From packing every item and managing the movers to making sure every item is unpacked correctly, we have you covered. All you’ll have to do is sit back and enjoy your new beginnings!
Call us today at 904-826-7055, schedule a consultation, or message us for more information.
