Senior Sentry - July 2008

Downsizing your home doesn’t have to be difficult

You may be considering changing your living situation. A large house may be difficult to take care of, navigating stairs may be a problem or the responsibility of home-ownership may be too costly. Whatever your reason, the transition to a smaller home requires some careful planning and time.

How do you sort through and let go of possessions collected over a lifetime?

Any move is stressful and overwhelming, and moving from a long-time residence is even more so. The idea of actually sorting through decades worth of stuff can be terribly daunting. But if you make a plan, some of the sorting process can actually be a joyful experience.

Plan your move.

Allow yourself enough time so you don't feel rushed. Making decisions on a lifetime of possessions can be emotionally painful so take time to absorb the change. Plan blocks of time in advance and make yourself adhere to a schedule.

Start Small.

Begin with a room that has no sentimental attachment. Go through a bathroom or spare room that isn’t used often and doesn’t force you to make painful choices. Enjoy reminiscing while you read, touch, and feel items you haven’t seen in years. Plan on 15-30 minutes a day in the beginning to allow yourself time to grow accustomed to the process.

But start big.

Make decisions on big items such as furniture and appliances. If you will not need them in your new home, or if they are too large, either dispose of them or tag them as sorted, donated or remove them from your home.

Make it personal.

Take pictures of your current space. That way you can refer to items and not rely on your memory. Go through all your personal papers. There is a limit on time that documents need to be kept, and you should dispose of those that are no longer needed.*

* visit www.bankrate.com/brm/news/mtg/20000518h.asp for a schedule

Be patient.

Taking time to reflect and remember. This is a big upheaval in your life and worthy of contemplation. The feelings of separation from your possessions will diminish in time. Giving items to children and loved ones can ease your mind as traditions will be carried on. However, keep in mind that your children have their own lives and have made their own choices in their own homes.

Keep or toss:

Use this checklist of criteria to determine what you should keep and what you should discard:
  •   When was the last time I used this?
  •   If I do use it, how often and why? What purpose does it serve?
  •   Do I own another item that can serve the same purpose as this one?
  •   Is this item something I love? Does it have sentimental value that can't be replaced?
  •   Can I get by without it? Would I have to replace it if I choose to get rid of it?
  •   Is it in working order? Will it last for a long time?
  •   Does it need repair, and if so, how much will that cost and is that worth the price?
  •   Do I know someone else who would benefit a lot more from its use?
  •   Does it serve a purpose in this new life that I'm moving to?

Get professional help.
There are many businesses that help individuals downsize their home and make the process much more manageable. Be sure to check references before you hire anyone!