Adjusting to a senior living community takes time; remember that any move or relocation represents a new transition in life. This move can feel exciting and perhaps even a bit overwhelming. A transition to a senior living community requires downsizing belongings, which is a process for anyone who makes the decision to move to a smaller home. Preparing early for the transition reduces stress and helps seniors ease into changes gradually. Here’s how to prepare to downsize gradually.
1. Tips for Downsizing Possessions
Most seniors know that family heirlooms and cherished keepsakes will move with them. However, what if these mementos exceed the space in the new home or apartment? Family members may wish to keep these items. Talk to children and grandchildren about items they love and may want to keep and pass down to later generations.
It’s common to gather items that you don’t wish to pack and move and invite family members to sort through them to take what they like or will use in their home. Some items may not find a new home; donate items in good condition to a local charity or thrift store!
2. Digitize Photos and Videos For Long-Term Preservation
Preserve photos for later generations through digitization. Many companies specialize in creating digital copies of old photos and videos. Multiple backup copies of these priceless mementos ensure that future generations can learn about their family members and enjoy past memories.
Digitizing photos and videos also saves space. When you move to a new home or a senior living facility, you may not have space for boxes of photos and old VHS recordings. With digital files, you can enjoy looking back at old photos and reminiscing about those wonderful moments. Family members can also download digital photos to a digital picture frame that streams a loop of favorite photos.
Interested in digitizing photos? Companies like ScanCafe digitize old images and videos and create high-resolution images that endure for generations.
3. Schedule an Estate Sale to Sell Large Items
Estate sales allow you to make a bit of money off of quality items you cannot move to your new home. Real T Simplistic works with many professionals to arrange for these sales for our clients. What should you consider selling at an estate sale? Antique furniture, vintage clothes, jewelry, cars, boats, and other large items are popular on the resale market. In addition, many estate sales also include kitchenware, appliances, and even home decor like old posters and paintings.
4. Don’t Forget to Declutter Garage and Attic Spaces
Attic spaces and garages may be ideal storage spaces in the home. Don't forget to declutter these areas of the home. Some attic spaces in old homes can be converted into living space, and potential buyers may be assessing the area. Garages must also be clear to help buyers assess available space for their needs.
5. Schedule a Tour To Find Your Ideal Senior Living Community
A senior living community needs to feel like home because it will be your home. Do not rush into making a decision about a community. Instead, tour senior living communities near you to find the best home for you. Bring a friend, your children, or another relative with you.
While cost is a large factor in this decision, other factors also matter. Ask about community activities, dining options, and medical care. It’s ok to ask questions; in fact, it’s necessary. Most facilities expect questions. Will you be able to see your current physicians? What transportation does the facility provide? Take time and ask the questions that weigh on your mind.
What do you think will be the most challenging part of preparing for a move to a senior living community?
- Sorting through memorabilia
- Selling large items
- Declutter & Downsize
- Choosing a senior living community
Remember that downsizing and moving to a senior living facility is a multi-step process, and this transition may elicit different emotions. Be gentle with yourself during the transition. Take time to find the community that makes you feel comfortable and at home. Real T Simplistic is here to help you every step of the way; reach out to us for a consultation on how we can support you during this time.
Kristyn Drury is the Co-Founder of Real T Simplistic, an Associate Broker, a Certified Senior Move Manager, and a Seniors Real Estate Specialist. Kristyn loves working with
senior clients and their families to help them transition and meet their relocation goals.
Nicole Hyman is the Co-Founder of Real T Simplistic, a Realtor, a NASMM Certified Senior Move Manager, and a Seniors Real Estate Specialist. Nicole enjoys working closely with seniors and their families to create a stress-free transition whether moving, downsizing or just decluttering.
Real T Simplistic Senior Move Managers is a team of experts helping seniors and their families to make "Thoughtful Moves." because moving a lifetime is always more than just a move. Real T assists with every aspect of senior transitions, from decluttering and rearranging to age in place, to downsizing or relocating to a smaller home or assisted living community.
Real T prepares a personal moving plan for each client, their home and their possessions. Real T is also uniquely able to help with selling the family home, and buying or leasing a new place -- taking care of marketing the home, locating the best new home and all of the paperwork details in between. Relax. You're in the right place. We've got this.
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