Making Your Move - Downsizing Tips for Seniors Moving to Vista Grande Villa

Making Your Move: Downsizing Tips for Seniors

There are many advantages to moving to an independent or assisted living community after retirement. For example, if you have mobility issues or you’re tired of housekeeping, less square footage is ideal.

Downsizing also comes with challenges, however. Sorting through a household of memories and possessions can be emotional and overwhelming. Here are some simple ways to simplify the process of downsizing your home so that you can enjoy your next stage of life.

Start early and make a plan

Sorting through years of accumulated possessions can be a daunting task for anyone. The best way to tackle tasks as you prepare to downsize is to make a plan of what needs to be done and set deadlines. Don’t forget to enlist close family and friends to help with packing and organizing. As you begin organizing your things, break them down into steps that can be managed over time. Ask yourself:

  • What days on your calendar will you tackle each task?
  • Who can help you with each task?
  • Will you need supplies, like boxes and tape?

Work one room at a time

Rather than trying to work on your entire house at once, focus on one room at a time. For example, start in your bedroom and begin sorting through clothes, furniture, and decorations. Once you complete one room, move onto the next until you have decluttered your entire house and have packed only the essentials that you will take with you to your new space.

Donate or throw away what you no longer need

As you sort through your possessions and decide what to keep, throw away, or donate, ask yourself the following questions:

  • When was the last time I used this?
  • What purpose will this item serve in my new space?
  • Is there sentimental value?
  • Would a family member appreciate or use it?

Decluttering your belongings can provide you the freedom and time for people and activities you love.

Take your new space into account

Whether you’re moving to a small apartment home or a spacious carriage house, it’s important to know the dimensions and layout of your new floor plan. Similarly, you should also consider what amenities are already provided by your new community, such as laundry or meals. These details will help you prioritize what you should take with you and what you can leave behind.

Look forward to the future at Vista Grande Villa

Remember, it’s natural to feel pangs of emotion as you begin the process of downsizing. Sorting your belongings can bring up a lot of emotion, but it can also be a time to feel excitement for the friends and new memories waiting for you in your new community. With a good plan and support from close family and friends, the process of moving doesn’t have to be stressful. Want to learn more about independent or assisted living options in Jackson? Contact VGV to learn more about our community and how we help residents transition to their new home with ease.

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