Is your parent moving in with you or to an assisted living facility, or maybe a smaller apartment or home? It doesn’t matter what their situation is or where they are moving, it’s likely they will be moving to a smaller place. If this is the case, they will need to downsize. While senior downsizing might sound like a negative thing, it can actually have many benefits, including a simpler lifestyle, better organization of paperwork, and the opportunity to pass on the legacy to the next generation.
Even if your parents are ready and willing to downsize, it can be overwhelming for seniors. These are some tips from professional organizers to help you downsize.
Senior Downsizing Tips
Garbage Must Be Removed
As with any type of home organizing, downsizing can be viewed as a series. It is easiest to start with the “low hanging fruit”. This is stuff that doesn’t have any emotional attachments and is not good enough for the thrift shop. Grab a bag and head to the pantry, linen closet or junk drawer in the kitchen. There will be many items that have expired. You should consider the size of the new house you are moving into, and zoning laws permitting, you may need to rent a dumpster.
Decide what you want to do
After you’ve got rid of all the trash, your parents need to decide which items they wish to keep. They should not be concerned about stuffing items in their new home when they are choosing which items to bring. They should pick the items that make their home comfortable and beautiful. Family photos are often the most important. They will help them remember the good times of their life.
Give Away the Good Stuff
The third step is to decide which heirlooms you want to pass on. It will be a joy for your parents to see their treasured items used by the next generation. There are times when the children and parents have different tastes. Your parents should first offer the heirlooms their children, then their grandkids, then their friends and other relatives who might enjoy the antiques. It’s okay if no one wants your stuff.
Sell Valuable Items
You can help your parents sell valuables they don’t want or can’t keep. They may ask you to help organize a garage sale or sell on Facebook Marketplace. They can not only get rid of items they don’t want but also make money.
Donate the Rest
Your parents may prefer to donate their items instead of having a garage sale. Ask them what charity they would like their items taken to.
When possible, keep your parents involved in the process. However, when it becomes overwhelming for them or you, it may ne time to call in a local senior move manager. Our professional organizers are available to assist you and your parents in making the senior moving and downsizing process easy, fun, and stress-free.
Brunswick Organizing Solutions
Leland, NC 28451
910-477-3768
info@getorganizednc.com
Brunswick Organizing Solutions
Shallotte, NC 28470
910-477-3768
Brunswick Organizing Solutions
Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
843-429-8158
Brunswick Organizing Solutions
Wilmington, NC 28403
910-477-3768
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