5 Tips to Downsize to an Assisted Living Community

If you, an aging parent or another family member are in a position in life where a little extra help would make a big quality of life difference, you may be wondering what it's like to downsize to assisted living. You're not alone.

As we age, our needs and wants change. Sometimes, we may find that our homes are no longer the right fit for us. We may be struggling to keep up with the maintenance, or we may simply need a smaller space that offers a safer environment. If you're considering a move to an assisted living community, downsizing your belongings is an important factor to consider.

The downsizing process can be a big task, but it doesn't have to be overwhelming. Here are a few downsizing tips for seniors that you might find helpful:

1. Start early. Don't wait until the last minute to start the downsizing process. This will give you more time to go through belongings and make decisions about what to keep, what to pass down to family members, what to sell and what to donate.
2. Be kind to yourself. Downsizing to assisted living can be an emotional experience. It's important to be patient and to allow yourself or your loved ones to grieve the loss of belongings accumulated over a lifetime.
3. Focus on the positive. Think of downsizing as an opportunity to declutter and start fresh. Sometimes our possessions weigh us down. Once freed from them, many people find they have more time and energy for new experiences, which is the perfect mindset if you're preparing to move to a senior living community.
4. Get help from others. Don't be afraid to ask for help from family and friends. They can help you go through your belongings and make decisions about what to keep and what to get rid of.
5. Don't be afraid to ask for professional help. If you find the downsizing process so stressful that you just can't imagine where to start or what to do next, you may want to consider hiring a professional organizer/moving company. They can help you make downsizing easier for you and your loved ones.

Downsizing to assisted living can be a big change, but it can also be a positive experience. By following these tips, you can make the process a little bit easier on all involved.

Here Are Some Additional Downsizing Tips For Seniors:

• Start by going through each room in your home and making a list of everything you own. This will help you to see how much stuff you have and where you can start to declutter.
• Be mindful of your sentimental attachments. It's okay to keep some belongings that are sentimental to you, but don't let them hold you back from downsizing.
• Consider donating or selling your belongings instead of throwing them away. This is a great way to declutter and give back to your community at the same time.
• Don't be afraid to ask for help from family and friends. Downsizing can be a big task, so it's helpful to have some extra hands.
• Take your time and don't rush the process. Downsizing can be an emotional experience, so it's important to take your time and make decisions that you're comfortable with.

We hope these tips help you on your journey to downsizing. For additional tips, check out this post on moving into a senior living community. Remember, it's okay to ask for help and to take your time. Downsizing can be a gentle process, if you let it be.

Get The Assistance You Need When You Need It.

We tailor our Assisted Living programs at each of our Providence Life Services communities such as Royal Atrium Inn in Zeeland, MI, and Victorian Village in Homer Glen, IL, to fit your loved one’s specific needs. We offer activities and social opportunities perfect for a wide variety of interests and abilities. To learn more, contact us today or schedule a tour.