7 Steps to Take the Stress Out of Downsizing for Seniors

From less stress to more freedom, there are plenty of benefits of downsizing for seniors. But it’s also a lot of work that can be both mentally and physically exhausting. That’s why it’s such a good idea to approach the project with a strategy that sets you up for a smooth transition. Here are seven steps to make your move as enjoyable and fulfilling as possible. 

Step 1: Stay Positive When Downsizing House

Every thought we have releases brain chemicals. So if you let yourself ruminate about how you’re leaving the home where you raised your family, your brain will release cortisol and other feel-bad hormones. Instead, focus on the new people you’ll meet and the leisure time you’ll save, your brain will reward you with serotonin and a sense of well-being. look at the bright side of downsizing by using tactics such as positive self-talk, practicing gratitude, and surrounding yourself with happy thinkers as much as possible. This will begin an upward spiral that improves your move — and your life. 

Step 2: Give Yourself Plenty of Time

Imagine trying to sort through decades of belongings in just a week—every decision would have to be made in an anxiety-ridden rush. Now, imagine having weeks or even months to set aside an hour each day to thoughtfully handle your possessions. You’d have time to donate items to places that need them most, personally pass down keepsakes to family members, and pack in an organized way that makes unpacking much easier. 

Step 3: Prioritize the Things You Love the Most

Dealing with treasured items first will make the rest of the downsizing process easier. If, for example, you’re not worried about your mother’s pearls getting lost in the move, you’ll be able to pack everything else up with the peace of mind of knowing the necklace has been taken care of. The same goes for family photos, rare coins, and anything especially valuable or sentimental.

One tip: Think about what you will do with things like children’s drawings, letters, and photo albums. Experts suggest streamlining your collection. If you can’t bear to part with something but you find you’re keeping too much, take a quick photo with your cell phone. Your family members will appreciate your efforts to curate and condense family memories. 

Step 4: Work Room by Room

Downsizing for seniors is a formidable task, so it’s smart to break it into chunks. The most logical way to do that is to work room by room. Make a schedule that lists the dates of when you will begin working on each room. Some people go all in, choosing to tackle the kitchen or basement first, while others opt to give themselves a quick, easy win with, say, the half bath. Either way, just keep moving along and stick to your schedule. Remember to stay positive (step 1) by doing what you can to make the work fun. Play peppy music or listen to an interesting podcast while you work. 

Step 5: Decide What to Pack, Donate, or Discard

Now the real heart of downsizing begins. As you go through each room, separate items into three categories: pack, donate, or discard (some people advocate for a “maybe” pile but that feels like just putting work off). Some things shouldn’t require much thought—items that are broken, ruined, or simply outdated (we’re looking at you, 8-track player) should be quickly discarded. 

Step 6: Label, Label, Label

Every box you pack should be labeled with the room you want movers to leave it in once the box makes it to your new home. This will make unpacking easier and more efficient. If you take time to do the previous steps, you won’t have to deal with stuff you don’t need or don’t know what to do with. This is the step where you’ll reap the rewards of your efforts. 

Step 7: Dreaming Big After Downsizing for Seniors

You’ve done the hard work — and you’ve made an effort to focus on the positive. Keep the momentum going by giving yourself the freedom to rethink the way you do things. Maybe you want to paint your new bedroom a fresh spring green or put a potted lemon tree by the south-facing window? How about learning a new language or playing an instrument? Do you want to start swimming or playing pickleball? Use your fresh start to try something new and see where it takes you. 

A New Beginning at The Atrium at Navesink Harbor

From therapeutic gardening and guided meditation to fitness classes and social gatherings, The Atrium at Navesink Harbor offers activities to enjoy daily, learn new things, and foster friendships. Take a look at what our waterfront community has to offer or, better yet, schedule a visit to see our Red Bank, New Jersey, campus for yourself.