Considering making the move to a senior living community, but nervous about the downsizing process? Downsizing can be an overwhelming task, but the right plan and processes will make all the difference! We understand the sentimental value, quantity, and uses of your items can all make it difficult to decide what to keep. Here’s our list of tips for getting organized before making a move. Let’s get Spring Cleaning! 

Envision Your Ideal Space + Lifestyle  

Sometimes it takes a little bit of motivation to start the organizing process! And what better motivation than your personal goals? Maybe it’s less chores? Or more social gatherings? The aspects of senior living that you’re looking forward to most are a great source of motivation!

We also recommend imagining what your new space might look like! This is a fun and exciting way to give you an idea of your current must-haves to bring along with you to your new home. In fact, we're happy to help you build a furniture plan for your future home at Clayton Oaks. The decision-making process is much easier when you know of the items you definitely plan to keep! 

Tip: Downsizing will go more smoothly if you start with a blank slate and add what you want and need, instead of looking at everything and trying to thin out. 

A System that Works for You

There’s many different ways to tackle downsizing. It’s essential to find what works best for you! Consider what time of day you feel most motivated. If you’re an early-bird, you may be most efficient by setting aside some time in the morning for organization. Another possibility is turning on some music to keep your energy up while working. We recommend trying out different methods to see what organization-mode you enjoy most! 

Tip: Schedule the dates and times (including breaks) to tackle your downsizing projects and stick with it. The process will go more smoothly if you designate specific time to work and rest!

One Space at a Time 

If you're task-oriented, this packing trick is for you! It's often best to take on one area or space at a time. This way, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment each time you finish sorting through a full closet or cluttered desk. It always feels good to add a checkmark on your to-do list!

Creating Different Piles 

We understand that your items may have sentimental value and can be hard to part with. We suggest sorting your stuff into four separate piles, so you can ensure each item gets put to  good use: 

• Keep - This is the easy category! Hang on to treasured items that you know you’ll love having in your new space. 

• Gift - This is the perfect option for items or pieces that are special but you no longer have use for. Even though you don’t need it, your children, grandkids, or even neighbors may have the perfect use for it! Plus, they’ll enjoy knowing that their new ice cream scoop or recipe book came from you! 

• Donate - Donating to nonprofit organizations is a great way to give your gently used items a great new home! Check for local resale stores in your area - some will even pick up your furniture for free!    

• Discard - While this is often the least enjoyable, the best part about this option is when you throw items in the trash or recycling bin, your space instantly feels more manageable. 

Tip: A great way to know if you’ll miss something is to think about if you’ve used it in the last year. If you haven’t, chances are you won't in the next year either.   

Get Labeling 

While packing make sure you are labeling each box with both the items inside and the room it will go in! This way, when it comes time to unpack, you’ll know what needs to be unpacked first and what can wait. Plus, it will be easy to find all of your stuff when needed! 

Tip: Once you get close to moving day, make sure to designate a “Right Away” box where you’ll put anything you will need within the first few days of moving, such as glasses, medications, and chargers.

While downsizing may seem like a big task, implementing these helpful tips and tricks will help make it simpler! Plus, downsizing has many benefits including less clutter, less stress in maintaining your home, and more opportunities for fun at a senior living community!

Questions about downsizing or interested in building a free furniture plan? Our team is happy to help!