It’s easy to accumulate belongings over a lifetime. Your home may be lined with items like photos, trinkets, and heirlooms, so deciding what you should bring to a senior living facility will take some consideration.
Advantages Of Downsizing
You’re likely moving to an independent community or assisted living facility that has more manageable spaces. Downsizing your inventory means you have less stuff to organize, clean, and maintain.
Consider the amenities – like the dining room, fitness center, and library – you’ll enjoy in a senior community. You won’t have to bring all your belongings from home because those items will be provided.
Liquidating your assets can also support the cost of living at an assisted living facility. Or you can support your community by donating appliances and furniture to homeless shelters or churches.
Consider The Size Of Your Space
The layout of your apartment will govern how much stuff you bring with you. Ask the staff for a layout of your apartment to decide what furniture you need to bring with you. Once you know what you have room for, you can start sorting through your smaller belongings.
Sorting Your Belongings
It’s best to begin sorting your belongings several months before you move. Deciding what you want to keep will take some serious thought. Break your possessions down into these categories:
For family or friends: Family heirlooms that hold sentimental value are useful items to pass on to loved ones. You may want to hand down jewelry, books, furniture, or appliances.
For sale or donation: Your loved ones may not need those appliances and furniture. Consider selling items of value or donating gently used furniture and housewares.
Toss or recycle: Cut through the clutter of old or broken belongings. If you haven’t used it in the last six months, you probably don’t need it.
Keep: Create a group of things you use every day, items that make you happy, and keepsakes you want to put in your new living quarters.
Ask Friends And Family To Help
Ask loved ones for their support during this transition. Friends and family can sort and move the items you need for your new space and the belongings you want to keep.
Ask them about passing on personal items. Do you have an heirloom they’ve always liked? Maybe they need a new sofa for their living room. Spending time together as you sort through items will bring back cherished memories that can lighten the emotional load as you downsize your possessions.
Find an Embassy Healthcare location near you so you can plan your transition to senior living. Call 888-975-1379 for admissions information.
