How to Downsize as You Make the Move to a Senior Living Community

Have you decided to make the transition to a senior living community? If so, there are many decisions you will have to make. You have spent a lifetime accumulating possessions; unfortunately, you won’t be able to bring them all with you. Downsizing can be a stressful process, both for the seniors who are moving and for their family members. At Summerset Senior Living, we advise our incoming residents and their families on ways to help ease the transition to senior living. Here are a few tips to help you downsize as you move to a senior living community:

Slow Down but Don’t Stop Moving

It’s a common misconception that everything must be done and settled before you can move. This can create a sense of
anxiety and unnecessary stress. Most people find that they get so overwhelmed they get stuck.

When it comes to downsizing, you don’t want to rush things. Consider whether it is possible to move to your new home first,
then tackle the task of downsizing. It does not have to be months, sometime an extra week or two is all you will need. When
you are not living in the space you are trying to downsize, the task becomes much more manageable. Moving first will not
only allow you to take your time but will also give you a break from the chaos and mess that often comes with the
downsizing process. Moving before you downsize will give you a better idea of what you use, what you miss and what is
important to you.

Take it One Room at a Time

Downsizing a home full of possessions can be overwhelming. It is best to take a systematic approach and tackle one room at
a time. Start in the bathroom or the kitchen. The items in these rooms often have the least amount of emotional attachment, making the act of downsizing much easier. With every clean cabinet you help yourself build momentum to tackle other parts of the house. Think of the room in which you have the most memories stashed away and save it for last. This will help prevent you from getting swept down memory lane and getting distracted. Also, with all other rooms clean and clear you will have made space for these special items and will have a better idea where they will fit in your new home.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

Moving to a senior living community is a significant life event, and you shouldn’t tackle it alone. It’s a good idea to ask your
adult family members for help. You’ll find that those around you will be more than happy to help you out with the process.
Additionally, you can consider hiring a professional move manager to help you downsize in an efficient manner.

Consider Your New Living Space

As stated earlier, the easiest way to downsize would be to move before you get rid of your things. This can help with space planning. Sometimes we think a chair will work perfectly only to find it is wrong for the space. If you move first, then downsize, it will give you the opportunity to switch out pieces for ones that may work better. Ask your senior living community to provide you with floor plans for your new living arrangements so you can plan accordingly.

Donate to Local Charities

While you may not need all your possessions when you move to a senior living community, other people may be able to benefit from them. Clothing, tools, hobby items, children’s toys, and more can improve the lives of needy people in your area. So, separate out those items that still have some life in them and find a local donation center instead of throwing them away.

Senior Living Communities in California

If you are thinking about moving to a senior living community, Summerset Senior Living has locations in Lincoln, CA and Rancho Cordova, CA with a range of services and living arrangements to meet your needs. Our team knows that downsizing can be a challenging process, but we can give you the resources and advice you need to get things done on your own terms. Call us at (916) 619-0494 to request more information or to schedule a tour of our communities.