Practical Tips to Help the Elderly Downsize Effectively

Moving your elderly parents, in-laws, or aunts & uncles out of a long-time family home can be an emotional & stressful process for the family as this requires a lot of decisions to be made and change, something that is not always easy. 

At Elder Moves Real Estate, we aim to make this process as stress-free as we possibly can for your & your family. If you have decided that it is time to downsize one of your family members, here are some practical tips to help you effectively & efficiently downsize.

1. Start Early: Encourage starting the process well in advance to reduce stress and allow time for thoughtful decisions
2. Plan & Prioritize: Make a list of the most important and frequently used items. This helps focus on what to keep and what can be let go.
3. Create a Sorting System: Use categories like "Keep," "Donate," "Sell," and "Discard" to organize belongings systematically.
4. Focus on Sentimental Items: Allocate time to go through sentimental items, allowing for reflection and decision-making about what to keep or pass on to family.
5. Use Technology: Digitize photos and important documents to save space while preserving memories and important information.
6. Seek Help: Involve family, friends, or professional organizers for physical help and emotional support throughout the process. We can recommend you to a reputable professional organizer, if needed.
7. Sell or Donate: Consider selling items through garage sales or online platforms, and donate to charities, which can be emotionally rewarding.
8. Simplify: Opt for furniture and items that serve multiple purposes to maximize the use of space in a new, smaller home.
9. Plan the New Space: Have a clear idea of the layout and storage in the new home to ensure essential items fit comfortably.
10. Health and Safety First: Ensure the new living space is safe and accessible, with considerations like non-slip mats, grab bars, and sufficient lighting.
11. Emotional Support: Downsizing can be emotional; it's important to acknowledge feelings and take breaks when needed.
12. Memory Boxes: Create small memory boxes with keepsakes for themselves or to pass on to family members, preserving the essence of their collection in a more manageable way.

While you still need to prepare for the unexpected or occasional setback, by following these steps, you can help make the transition smoother and less overwhelming.