Helping Seniors Downsize and Adjust to Their New Space

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Downsizing a home is a large task and when you are trying to help a senior downsize, it can cause unnecessary stress and anxiety as they have to get rid of some of the things they own. Many seniors are flooded with emotions when they start uncovering hidden photo albums and memories from the past.

Not only is downsizing a challenge, adjusting to the new space can be difficult as well. If you are helping a senior downsize and move into a new home, the following tips will help you get them settled in quickly.

  1. Start Going Through Everything

Before you can downsize, you must declutter and get rid of items throughout the home. Many seniors are physically unable to declutter on a regular basis, so the home may be full of unnecessary or unwanted items.

A few weeks before the move, start sorting through things one day at a time and room by room. You can place keep items in one pile, donate items in another, and trash items in a third pile.

  1. Get a Storage Unit

Before you move the senior into a new space, start by renting a storage unit for all of the additional items they want to keep, but do not or will not have the room for. You can get a storage unit in varying sizes to accommodate the specific needs of the senior you are helping.

When placing the items in the storage, make sure to organize the storage unit so that items can be found easily when they are needed.

  1. Take a Picture of the Old Space

Before you pack up and start moving, take a picture of the old space so that you can redecorate the new space with the same elements. You will find that this method helps seniors adjust easily to their new space and they will not be longing for their old home as much.

  1. Pack Everything Neatly

Seniors should never lift or move boxes on their own as it is a hazard. You should take each of their valuable items and wrap them in bubble wrap to protect them. Next, pack up all items into boxes and secure the boxes with strong tape to ensure they do not break.

It is important to help seniors downsize in an efficient manner. Simply taking their things and throwing them out or into boxes without going through them will not work. You can use the tips above to help you downsize your senior relative’s home and help them adjust to their new home.


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