{"id":58307,"date":"2022-10-17T12:31:50","date_gmt":"2022-10-17T19:31:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/?page_id=58307"},"modified":"2022-10-17T12:31:34","modified_gmt":"2022-10-17T19:31:34","slug":"seniors-guide-to-downsizing","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/seniors-guide-to-downsizing\/","title":{"rendered":"Decluttering and Downsizing: A Guide for Seniors and Their Loved Ones"},"content":{"rendered":"

Throughout our lifetime, it\u2019s easy to accumulate belongings that we may no longer use. Whether it\u2019s a gift you didn\u2019t want in the first place, an expensive kitchen appliance you haven\u2019t used in years, or a wardrobe that no longer suits you, it can be hard to part ways without feeling guilty. But let\u2019s face it, clutter has the ability to multiply as soon as you take your eyes off it.<\/span><\/p>\n

For your loved one, adjusting to life in a new home can be challenging \u2013 whether they\u2019re moving into a retirement community in<\/span> Los Angeles, CA<\/span><\/a>, downsizing into a small <\/span>apartment in Washington, D.C<\/span><\/a>., or joining you in your <\/span>rental home in Chicago, IL<\/span><\/a>. It involves significant changes, like leaving behind a home where happy memories were made and finding new homes for some of their belongings. Helping your aging parents declutter is a big effort but a necessary one.<\/span><\/p>\n

Decluttering is a wonderful way to reflect on memories your loved one holds dear and open the door to the next stage of life. This guide is designed to make the decluttering and downsizing process as simple as possible for aging adults and their loved ones. It will help you prepare for the transition and offer advice to loved ones on what they can do to help. Keep the lines of communication open, take it one step at a time, and don\u2019t rush into anything before you\u2019re ready.<\/span><\/p>\n

We\u2019ve turned to senior relocation and downsizing expert <\/span>Caring Transitions<\/b><\/a> to weigh in and provide their best tips and advice for helping seniors declutter and downsize. <\/span><\/p>\n

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Step 1: Discuss the move with your loved one<\/span><\/h2>\n

The sooner you discuss the decluttering and downsizing process, the more time everyone will have to evaluate all options. Unless your aging parent or family member has experienced a recent medical issue that can hinder their quality of life, don\u2019t force the conversation if your loved one seems resistant to the idea.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Find a time, space, and place to spark the conversation where your loved one will feel comfortable and supported. Plan for interruptions and conversational derailments. You can even practice beforehand, make notes, and rehearse the conversation with a friend so you can feel confident that you’re communicating in a positive way. Remember that difficult questions and conversations take time, patience, and perseverance to sort through.<\/span><\/p>\n

If you did face hesitancy from your aging adult, bring the topic of decluttering and downsizing up again at a later date. It\u2019s important to be patient with your loved one and recognize they may be feeling frustration, fear, and anxiety.<\/span><\/p>\n

The Conversation Starter Guide<\/span><\/a> is a great resource that includes a step-by-step process, questions to ask, and other tips and help make sure you\u2019re asking the right ones while understanding your loved one\u2019s needs and wants.<\/span><\/p>\n

Step 2: Set a tentative date<\/span><\/h2>\n

Create a calendar to share with your loved one and others involved in the move to take some of the uncertainty away. Choose tentative dates for:<\/span><\/p>\n