4 Downsizing Tips for Assisted Living Residents
Transitioning into an assisted living community can be an exciting new chapter of your life that comes with many positive benefits. Finally, the stresses of homeownership are gone, and you can sit back, relax, and let someone else take the reins. One thing that isn’t so fun, however, is downsizing. We’ve put together some helpful tips to make your move as painless as possible.
- Make a list
Lists are a great way to organize your thoughts. Before you start to pack things up, spend some time making a list of things you know you’ll want and need from home. Things that don’t make that list, consider getting rid of it.
- Declutter
Decluttering doesn’t mean throwing out things with sentimental value. Keepsakes like photo albums or special letters prompt happy memories. However, consider parting with some of your many throw pillows, extra cooking utensils, clothing that doesn’t fit, unused blankets, and excess furniture. Having a loved one with you for support can also be helpful when deciding what to bring and what to leave behind.
- Pass down family heirlooms
Consider passing down some of the special items with which you’ve decided to part. If you know there is a quilt your daughter has always admired or an antique desk your son continues to rave about, pass it down. Odds are they will appreciate it more than you know and every time they look at the item, they’ll think of you!
- Sell it
There are lots of places where you can sell items that you don’t need anymore. Local consignment shops are usually more than happy to take clothing, shoes, or gently used household items. The Facebook Market is also a good place to sell things because you are in control of the price and to whom you’d like to sell. Craigslist and eBay are some more online options and are especially popular for larger items such as appliances and furniture.