Considering a move to a senior living community but feeling anxious about downsizing? While downsizing can feel overwhelming, having a solid plan in place can make a significant difference! We understand that the emotional connections, quantity, and purposes of your items can make downsizing a challenge. Take a look at our recommendations for organizing before your move. Let’s embrace Spring Cleaning!

Dream Big

Beginning the organization process may require some motivation, and there’s no better source of motivation than your own personal goals. Whether it’s reducing your to-do list or increasing time spent with friends, focusing on the aspects of senior living you’re most excited about can help get you started.

It can be fun and exciting to imagine what your new space will look like. This can help you figure out which items you want to bring to your new home, and we can help you create a furniture plan for your future residence at Spring Creek Village to make the decision-making process easier.

Tip: Downsizing will go more smoothly if you start with a blank slate and add what you want and need, instead of looking at everything and trying to thin out. 

Identify a Process

Downsizing can be tackled in numerous ways. It is crucial to find the method that suits you best! Think about when you feel most productive. If you are a morning person, you might find it helpful to designate some time in the morning for organization. Another option is to play music to keep your energy levels high while working. We recommend trying different methods to discover the organization mode that works best for you!

Tip: Schedule the dates and times (including breaks) to tackle your downsizing projects and stick with it. The process will go more smoothly if you designate specific time to work and rest!

Start Small

If you’re task-oriented, this packing trick is for you! It’s often best to take on one area or space at a time. This way, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment each time you finish sorting through a full closet or cluttered desk. It always feels good to add a checkmark on your to-do list!

Categorize 

We understand that your items may have sentimental value and can be hard to part with. We suggest sorting your stuff into four separate piles, so you can ensure each item gets put to  good use: 

• Keep – This is the easy category! Hang on to treasured items that you know you’ll love having in your new space. 
• Gift – This is the perfect option for items or pieces that are special but you no longer have use for. Even though you don’t need it, your children, grandkids, or even neighbors may have the perfect use for it! Plus, they’ll enjoy knowing that their new ice cream scoop or recipe book came from you! 
• Donate – Donating to nonprofit organizations is a great way to give your gently used items a great new home! Check for local resale stores in your area – some will even pick up your furniture for free!    
• Discard – While this is often the least enjoyable, the best part about this option is when you throw items in the trash or recycling bin, your space instantly feels more manageable. 

Tip: A great way to know if you’ll miss something is to think about if you’ve used it in the last year. If you haven’t, chances are you won’t in the next year either.   

Start Labeling 

While packing make sure you are labeling each box with both the items inside and the room it will go in! This way, when it comes time to unpack, you’ll know what needs to be unpacked first and what can wait. Plus, it will be easy to find all of your stuff when needed! 

Tip: Once you get close to moving day, make sure to designate a “Right Away” box where you’ll put anything you will need within the first few days of moving, such as glasses, medications, and chargers.

While downsizing may seem like a big task, implementing these helpful tips and tricks will help make it simpler! Plus, downsizing has many benefits including less clutter, less stress in maintaining your home, and more opportunities for fun at a senior living community!

Questions about downsizing or interested in building a free furniture plan? Our team is happy to help!