3 minute read
FINANCE
By Gary Heiler
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Atime comes when you have to make a decision to move into a retirement home. After evaluating your options and finding the perfect place to live out the next chapter of life, you're now ready to consider the actual moving process, such as getting rid of the stuff you will no longer use and probably purchasing a few things you will need in the future.
Decluttering as part of downsizing can be hectic for older adults. Here are five tips to help you downsize when moving to a retirement community.
MAKE A PLAN
Downsizing is a process that requires planning a few months before the actual day arrives. With a plan, you are able to reflect on what is needed to facilitate the process (such as the people who will be involved) as well as identifying the things you will no longer require in your new home. Ideally, begin the process a month or two prior to the day of moving.
A plan also allows you sufficient time to assess how your furniture will fit into your new space. This is where you decide to sell or donate some things and acquire new ones if necessary.
DECLUTTER AND GET RID OF ITEMS
Decluttering is a sure way to take note of the things you can afford to lose as well as those you want to keep. Consider the equipment provided in your new home to avoid bringing along things that are already available. Put aside appliances you rarely use, clothes you never wear and other things that will not be needed. For instance, equipment or tools for an activity you no longer do. After decluttering, you are now ready to dispose of your items.
You may choose to sell valuable goods to willing buyers, donate to people or institutions that may use them, or store them somewhere safe until you find a better use for them. The point here is to make sure you have all your items in order before the time to move comes.
MEASURE TWICE
It can be frustrating to find out that your favorite items are too large for your new space, a reason you should have the correct measurements before moving. While taking measurements, pay attention to large items such as the couch, bed, and any other item you will have to squeeze through multiple doorways.
If your community does not provide a floor plan online, you may visit the facility to take the measurements yourself. Having the right measurements will help you visualize where every item will go in relation to the placement of windows and doors.
GET SOME HELP
Moving into a retirement community is not only physically exhausting, but also emotionally draining. For this reason, it is advisable to seek help from friends and relatives to help in the transition, from helping to shop the needed items to picking the items you will need and preparing your new home.
Being surrounded by family and friends at this moment can help ease the pressure of leaving behind things and people dear to you. This way, you are sure to find comfort and contentment as you adjust to a new and exciting life ahead.
MAINTAIN A POSITIVE OUTLOOK
Rather than be overly emotional about your transition, it can be more helpful if you remain optimistic and joyful about the future. As you go about cleaning and downsizing in preparation for the move, take time to think about what the new chapter of your life has to offer. Focus on what you will be doing in your new home and what you will find valuable and exciting.
After all, moving into a retirement community does not mean you are entirely alone; your family and friends will be within reach in case you need them.
Indeed, downsizing when moving into a retirement community is a time to celebrate what matters to you as you usher in the next part of your life. As long as you have a plan and family beside you, your transition will no doubt be a moment of joy.
