Downsizing for a Retirement Community Means Making Room for Joy

A few years ago, decluttering was all the rage. While Marie Kondo encouraged us to ask if an item “sparked joy,” homeowners everywhere dug into their closets and junk drawers to evaluate their belongings and let go of possessions to make room what mattered most to them in that current season of life. When downsizing for a retirement community, there may be an even better question to ask: “Will this help me enjoy my next chapter?”

An important thing to remember that downsizing doesn’t mean that you are fitting in an entire lifetime of belongings and memories into a smaller home. It’s about creating space for a lifestyle that involves less maintenance, less stress and more time to focus on yourself, your people and experiences-those are the true carriers of joy any way.

When preparing for a move, these downsizing tips can help make the process more manageable:

Start with a future-focused mindset

Imagine waking up in your new, spacious apartment knowing that breakfast is ready for you and friendly co-workers are looking forward to sharing a smile and hello. There is a full slate of activities that you could participate in if you desire-one of which is a favorite hobby of yours. Also, it’s a beautiful day, so a group of your new friends have planned a walk around the campus walking path in the afternoon. What you aren’t worrying about is the lawn that needs mowed, the stairs that lead to the basement where your laundry needs done that have become harder on your knees, or the utility bills that are coming due at the end of the month. Instead, your focus is on the fitness class you get to try out for the first time, the next book club title that gets to be cracked open and the time you will get to spend with your family members when they visit this weekend. When you think about the life you are creating, letting go of some of the “stuff” becomes a little easier.

Take your time and set a timer

Downsizing for a retirement community can take time-no need to bite off the whole project in one weekend. We recommend starting as soon as able because it is a process that may take longer than anticipated.

Try the 10-10 method. Set a timer for 10 minutes, find 10 items to donate, recycle or toss to make a dent in the clutter. Stop there and do the same thing again tomorrow – or heck, if you feel inspired, set the timer for another 10 minutes.

Begin with the easy decisions

Be strategic on where you start with your first 10 minutes. Instead of opening the box filled with family photos and heirlooms, start with linen closets, kitchen drawers and storage areas. Small wins in these areas leads to confidence in tackling the next decision.

Reframe more questions

Instead of asking, “should I keep this?” reframe it to be “If I can only keep one, which one would I choose?” This is a helpful exercise when going through all those coffee mugs that seem to collect themselves over the years!

Instead of “Will this fit in my new floor plan?” think about it as “how can I creatively capture how special these items are?” For example, if it is a favorite sofa that may not fit, is there opportunity to turn the fabric into a throw pillow that could go on a smaller sofa? Or if you are questioning how to thin out a large and beloved collection, is there a way to photograph the items and display them in the new apartment in a shadow box or gallery wall?

Bring family members along for the journey

When it comes to “the stuff,” many seniors keep items because it’s something someone might want or need someday. Rather than guessing or holding on to things that will eventually be tossed or donated, ask your family to be involved in the process and let them choose pieces that are meaningful to them. You’d be surprised what family members regard as treasures.

Remember: Take your time with this process and remember to pause to reminisce. Downsizing for a retirement community and can be a therapeutic and thoughtful experience for the entire family.

Understand the new floor plan

Work with your advisor to understand the unique floor plan of your apartment. At Ecumenical Retirement Community, there are nuances to dimensions and layouts based on the apartment style and level of care. Understanding the floor plan will help you and your family craft a space that is warm, welcoming and feels like an extension of your beloved home.

Safety First

The organization process may require different piles of things and boxes stacked up in corners. Take care of yourself and your safety. Maintain some organization to avoid tripping hazards and be mindful of lifting heavy objects or moving boxes.

Another strategy that might help: The Core 4 Method popularized by another professional organizer and follows 4 C’s: Clear Out, Categorize, Cut Out and Contain as a way to safely process and complete one area at a time.

Know Your Resources

In many regions, there are senior move managers that can be hired to support seniors and their families through the downsizing and moving process. The National Association of Senior and Specialty Move Managers allows you to search for resources in your area.

Finally, Give yourself Grace

The journey to downsizing for a retirement community can be a very emotional process. There will be hard conversations had when the realities of a move set in and you are faced the uncertainty of what life looks like next. All of those feelings are valid and real, feel them and then remember our first tip in this post!

It’d be an honor to support you!

No matter where you are in your downsizing journey, our team of advisors are here to guide you. Maybe you are just starting to think about the move, or you’ve done your research and are ready to tour retirement communities in the Harrisburg area. We look forward to supporting you and your family in downsizing for a retirement community move.