Taking the Stress out of Downsizing for Seniors
Moving is one of the top five most stressful events in life — and it’s even harder when the move involves downsizing for seniors. That’s because there’s so much stuff to get rid of and because of the emotions of leaving a home where you may have raised your family.
We’re going to take a look at how to beat both kinds of stress — and it starts with remembering and focussing on why you’re downsizing in the first place.
The Benefits of Downsizing for Seniors
You’ve been taking care of your yard and your house all these years — But is that how you really want to spend your days?
One of the biggest benefits of downsizing for seniors is the time — and possibly money — it frees up time to try new activities and launch new adventures. Would you rather shovel your driveway or make a snowman with your grandchildren? What’s more fun, cleaning the grout on your tile floor or spending an afternoon at the spa or the golf course?
Then there are the advantages of the place you’re moving to. If you’re moving to an active senior living community like those offered by Springpoint, for example, you’ll be just a few steps away from a heated swimming pool, library, interesting places to dine, and inviting places to sit and watch the world go by both indoors and out. Then there are the hundreds of activities and events that are offered each month.
Staying Ahead of the Physical Stress of Moving
You need to have a game plan before packing — and it starts with leaving yourself enough time.
A good starting point is to identify items you love and absolutely must keep, which you can then carefully pack up and put aside. Next, gather the items you’re planning on giving to loved ones. Finally — and this should be the easiest part — go through your belongings and get rid of anything that’s broken, ruined, obsolete (that box of old remotes), or that you have duplicates of. You’re now ready to tackle the bulk of the work
Set up a schedule for yourself that outlines when you’re going to sort through each room in your house. Whether you commit to one room a day (ambitious!) or one room a month, make sure you stick to your schedule. Some people like to start with the hardest room in the house while others prefer to build their confidence by tackling an easy room first.
Whatever your approach is, you’ll want to group items into piles that you will pack, donate, or discard. Some people add a fourth classification — items you’re not sure about — but that’s just putting work off. Be decisive and take care of business on the spot. If necessary, enlist a friend or family member to help you keep moving and on track. In big, bold print, label each box with the room where movers should put it. Next, specify what is in each box. Finally, number each box and record those numbers on a packing list so that if anything goes missing, you’ll know what it is.
One final thought: It’s always smart to pack one box of things you’ll want to be able to locate quickly for your first night in your new home, including toiletries, medicine, and things you just can’t do without. Remember both practical items like phone chargers, as well as things that will help you feel comfortable, like your favorite blanket or slippers.
Managing the Emotional Stress of Moving
There’s a pattern that often takes form when people are faced with a major life change. Most people’s initial reaction is to focus on what’s difficult about the change — and that’s where a lot of us get stuck. But if you can shift your mindset to focus on the positives of your new situation, you’ll slowly but surely see your anxiety turn into excitement.
Still, staying positive throughout every phase of a move is easier said than done. If you find yourself struggling, remember that what you think dictates how you will feel, and put in the effort to focus on the positive. That could mean keeping an actual list of the benefits of downsizing for seniors. You might also find it helpful to talk to a good friend who has already successfully downsized — and draw encouragement from them.
Remember, that fresh beginnings are a chance to rethink what you want your life — and your home — to look like. Maybe it’s time to swap out your old dishes for a pattern you’ve had your eye on. Or perhaps you’re sick of traditional decor and want to add a few modern touches. If you’re moving to an active senior living community, take a look at their activities calendar and make a list of new things you’d like to try once you move in.
You might not miss your backyard if your new home has a network of walking trails and benches to sit and enjoy the view. You might not miss your old neighborhood if you make an effort to get to know your new neighbors. In the words of legendary author and motivational speaker Dale Carnegie, remember this: “Inaction breeds doubt and fear. Action breeds confidence and courage. If you want to conquer fear, do not sit home and think about it. Go out and get busy.”
Springpoint Choice Offers Options and Peace of Mind
Springpoint Choice is a membership program that makes senior care planning easy, affordable, and secure. As an alternative to long-term care insurance or a complement to an existing policy, Springpoint Choice allows members to plan for the future while safeguarding their finances. Members benefit from stability and peace of mind for a simple fixed fee structure. Contact our team today to learn more.