Michelle Messina, LMSW, Realtor®, SRES®

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Give yourself plenty of time to sort, pack, and organize. A well-thought-out plan will help reduce stress and keep the process manageable.

• Create a Timeline: Set milestones for decluttering, packing, and moving day preparations. Break tasks into smaller, daily goals to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
• Make a Checklist: Write down everything you need to accomplish before the move, such as scheduling movers, gathering packing supplies, and notifying utilities.

Before diving into the process, take some time to reflect on why you’re downsizing and what you hope to achieve. Ask yourself:

• Are you looking to reduce maintenance and upkeep?
• Do you want to save money or live in a more manageable space?
• Are you preparing for a move to a senior-friendly community?

Having clear goals will help guide your decisions and keep you motivated when the process feels challenging.

Moving is the perfect opportunity to let go of items you no longer need. Focus on keeping what is essential and meaningful.

• Start Small: Begin with one room or a small area, like a drawer or closet. This makes the task feel more manageable.
• Sort Items into Categories: Use labeled boxes or bins for
  • Keep
  • Donate
  • Sell
  • Discard
• Ask for Help: Enlist family or friends to help with decluttering, especially for heavy or sentimental items.

Smart packing can save time and prevent damage to your belongings.

• Use the Right Supplies: Invest in sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, packing tape, and labels. Consider color-coded labels or markers for different rooms.
• Pack Essentials Separately: Create an "Essentials Box" with items you’ll need immediately after moving, such as medications, toiletries, a change of clothes, and important documents.
• Don’t Overload Boxes: Keep boxes light enough to lift safely. Pack heavier items, like books, in smaller boxes and lighter items, like bedding, in larger boxes.
• Protect Fragile Items: Wrap delicate items in bubble wrap or soft towels. Clearly label boxes with fragile items.

Seniors should prioritize ease of movement and safety during the packing and moving process.

• Leave Walkways Clear: Avoid cluttering hallways and doorways with boxes or furniture to prevent trips and falls.
• Hire Professionals for Heavy Lifting: If possible, hire movers to handle large furniture or heavy boxes.
• Use Mobility Aids if Needed: For seniors who use canes, walkers, or wheelchairs, ensure that pathways remain wide and unobstructed throughout the move.

 Keeping your belongings organized during the move will make unpacking easier.

• Label Everything: Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to. Use large, legible handwriting or printed labels.
• Create an Inventory: Write down a list of all packed boxes and their contents. This will help you keep track of your items and locate specific belongings after the move.
• Pack Room by Room: Focus on one area at a time to stay organized and prevent mixing items from different rooms.

Moving can be physically and emotionally taxing. Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance.

• Family and Friends: Loved ones can provide both emotional support and physical help with sorting and packing.
• Professional Movers: Consider hiring movers experienced in senior relocations. Many companies offer specialized services, such as packing, unpacking, and setting up your new home.
• Move Managers: Senior move managers can handle the entire moving process, from planning to unpacking, with sensitivity to your specific needs.

Moving often involves saying goodbye to a home full of memories. Allow yourself time to reflect and process the emotions that come with this transition.

• Preserve Memories: Take photos of your home or create a scrapbook to capture cherished memories.
• Focus on the Positive: Remind yourself of the benefits of the move, such as less maintenance, a more convenient location, or a supportive community.
• Seek Support: Talk to friends, family, or a counselor if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the emotional aspects of the move.

Once you’ve moved, focus on making your new home comfortable and familiar.

• Unpack Essentials First: Start with the essentials box and items for daily use.
• Arrange Furniture Thoughtfully: Set up your furniture to create a functional and safe living environment.
• Add Personal Touches: Decorate with familiar items, such as favorite photos, artwork, or mementos, to make your new space feel like home.

• Health and Mobility: Do you need a home with fewer stairs, wider hallways, or accessibility features? Are there current or anticipated health conditions that may require special accommodations?
• Lifestyle Preferences: What daily activities are most important to you? Do you enjoy gardening, socializing, or being close to family?
• Finances: What is your budget for housing, including potential costs for maintenance, utilities, or community fees?
• Proximity to Resources: How close do you want to be to healthcare providers, grocery stores, or public transportation?

• What It Is: Staying in your current home with or without modifications to accommodate changing needs.
• Who It’s For: Those who value familiarity, independence, and have a strong support network nearby.
• Considerations: You may need to make modifications, such as adding grab bars, stairlifts, or ramps. Factor in the cost and logistics of these changes.

• What It Is: Downsizing to a smaller, more manageable property that may require less maintenance.
• Who It’s For: Those who prefer independence but want to reduce upkeep and expenses.
• Considerations: Look for properties with low-maintenance features, such as single-level layouts or HOA services for exterior upkeep.

• What It Is: Communities designed for active seniors, offering amenities such as social activities, dining options, and maintenance services.
• Who It’s For: Those who want a sense of community and convenience without the need for personal care services.
• Considerations: Compare amenities, costs, and locations to find a community that fits your lifestyle.

• What It Is: Housing that combines independent living with support for daily tasks, such as bathing, dressing, or medication management.
• Who It’s For: Seniors who need some assistance but don’t require full-time medical care.
• Considerations: Research staff-to-resident ratios, available services, and costs. Visit facilities to get a feel for the environment.

• What It Is: Moving in with family members who can provide support and companionship.
• Who It’s For: Seniors with strong family connections and mutual agreement on shared living arrangements.
• Considerations: Discuss expectations, privacy, and responsibilities with family members to ensure the arrangement works for everyone.

Once you’ve identified your preferences, take the time to visit potential housing options. Here’s what to do:

• Tour Communities: Schedule visits to independent living or assisted living facilities. Ask about amenities, safety features, and social activities.
• Talk to Residents: Get insights from current residents about their experiences.
• Evaluate Accessibility: Look for features that match your mobility needs, such as ramps, elevators, or grab bars.
• Review Contracts and Fees: Understand what’s included in costs, such as utilities, meals, and care services.

Your needs may evolve over time, so choose an option that can adapt as circumstances change. For example:

• If aging in place, consider how you’ll access help if needed.
• If moving to a community, explore options that offer additional care levels if required.

Making a housing decision is easier with the right support. Consider consulting:

• Family Members: They can offer input and assistance in your search.
• Real Estate Agents: Professionals with experience in downsizing can help you find properties that match your needs.
• Senior Living Advisors: Specialists who can guide you through available options and facilities.