Moving into a Retirement Community? Tips to Help Downsize

If you are ready to begin a new chapter in your retirement years, love the idea of maintenance-free living, or would like to move closer to family; why not consider a 55+ community. Moving into smaller living quarters also means lower utility bills, less space to clean and less clutter in your life.

This also means you may have to downsize as senior living apartments are generally smaller than your family home. Think of it as an opportunity to get rid of stuff you have been hanging on to for years, and most likely no longer need. If after looking around your home and realizing you have a big job ahead of you, it may be time to get a few tips from organizing experts?

On top of the list is to take into account the size of your new home. This will give you a good idea of what you should take and what needs to go. If you are helping an older parent go through their home, remember change can be difficult and letting go of possessions, also means letting go of their old way of life. Be respectful and recognize objects are not just things but memories.
Organizing experts say there are four important questions to ask yourself when sorting through items:

Do I need it or want it?
Does it have sentimental value?
Do I use it often?
Do I have another item that performs the same function?

Obviously the most difficult things to get rid of are those with sentimental value but there are other ways to keep the memories. One solution is to find a good home for something you no longer need but know someone who would enjoy it. Even for those items you donate to charity, focus on the good it will do for others.

Don’t be shy about asking for help from family or friends, or hire a company that specializes in clearing houses. Another thing experts recommend is to take time to say goodbye to the house but to remember you are moving forward with a new, exciting chapter.

MorningStar of Kirkland is a vibrant, new 55+ community complete with resort-style amenities and hospitality services. Opening in the first quarter of 2022, our 151 spacious apartments are available in a variety of floorplans and configurations. Please visit our website for contact information and to learn more about the finest senior housing Kirkland offers.

Source: redfin.com/blog/seniors-guide-to-downsizing/

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