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Transitioning to a senior living community for retirement is an exciting time for older adults, but that doesn’t mean it is without stress! Moving from a larger family home to a more compact living space is an emotional life event for many seniors.
However, the process can run smoothly with proper planning, help from loved ones, and a positive attitude. Here are some tips for downsizing your home in preparation for moving into a senior living community.
Tips for downsizing your home for a move to a senior living community
Start with a plan
Before you begin packing and moving, sit down and develop a well-thought-out plan. Consider the size and layout of your new living space.
Create a list of moving companies, cleaners, donation locations, realtors, and anyone else you may need for your move. Ask the senior living community you’re moving to if you can bring your furniture, take measurements, list items you want to bring, and get details about moving day.
Don’t delay so you have enough time
Begin downsizing as soon as possible. Time constraints and procrastination only lead to unnecessary stress. Giving yourself time to downsize at your leisure will allow you to make intelligent decisions about your home, its contents, and finances.
Moving from a beloved family home can be an emotional experience. You’ll need time to process your emotions without being rushed. If the need for a move is sudden, concentrate on getting your loved one situated in a senior living community with their necessities and set a plan to downsize later.
Declutter with purpose
Declutter like you mean it! Don’t keep things you don’t need. This is the perfect opportunity to get rid of items you don’t need. Carefully declutter one room at a time and create piles to keep, donate, sell, or discard.
Download our free guide, Choosing the Right Senior Living Community.
Enlist the help of family and friends
Moving doesn’t have to be a chore. Don’t be afraid to ask family and friends for help. Make it fun! Have a packing party! Reward friends for their help and support with delicious food, great music, and drinks.
This is a perfect time to invite adult children and grandchildren over to reminisce while sorting and purging. Allow them to choose their favorite keepsakes and family heirlooms to enjoy in their homes or pass down to their children.
Hire the pros for help
If you're selling your home, hire a real estate agent to help prepare it for sale and get you the best price. Meet with a financial advisor to assess your current and future financial needs and recommend ways to pay for senior living.
Consider hiring a senior move specialist or professional organizer. They can help you plan and manage your move. Visit the National Association of Productivity & Organizing Professionals to find someone in your area.
Take the items you love
Decorate your new home with a mixture of old and new. This is the perfect time to change your decorating style and try something new. Select a few cherished items, family heirlooms, cozy furniture, family photos, and favorite artwork to take to your new home.
Choose creative storage solutions
Creative storage solutions are crucial to successful downsizing. Before your move, assess the storage options in your new senior living community. Invest in space-saving items such as under-bed containers, closet organizers, shelving, or furniture with hidden storage spaces.
Wrap-up
Downsizing from your home to a senior living community doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By starting early, enlisting the help of family and friends, and utilizing creative storage solutions, you can navigate this transition with confidence and ease.
For more information on Allegro Senior Living communities, please get in touch with one of our helpful advisors! Download our free guide, “Choosing the Right Senior Living Community,” to learn more.
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