After finding the perfect retirement apartment for your loved one, the next challenge is helping them reduce their belongings. Downsizing will be a stressful process for you both since it means disposing of much of what they’ve collected over the years. Here are some tips to ease the process.

5 Tips for an Easier Downsizing

1. Visit the New Home

Sometimes, downsizing becomes easier and faster when your loved one can imagine how much of their possessions can fit in their new place. Visit their retirement apartment and spend some time in it. Once you go home, encourage them to visualize which items will go where or have no place in their would-be living space.

2. Create a List

Following the tour, list what your loved one might need in their new home. But don’t forget to involve them in making this list—they may want to bring a few sentimental possessions to make their retirement apartment feel familiar and cozy like their old house.

3. Start Small

Instead of diving headfirst into big rooms like the kitchen and bedroom, tackle small areas with little to no emotional attachment, such as the linen closet and guest room. Get rid of items without sentimental value or duplicates, but rather than throwing them out, sell or donate them to avoid adding to the landfill.

4. Divide Possessions Into Piles

Sort their belongings into two piles: for keeping and disposal. Avoid creating a third pile for consideration, as this might tempt them into making space for it. Before categorizing an item, ask your loved one whether it has a purpose. Otherwise, consider letting it go, as others may find a better use for it.

5. Let Them Reminisce

Decluttering doesn’t mean being heartless. Sorting and clearing rooms don’t have to be a sprint; it’s okay to pause for a bit. Your loved one may need time to review mementos, collections, and prized possessions. Allow them to be nostalgic, as this might help them to let go of stuff easier.

Follow the above tips to help your loved one through this life-changing process before moving to a retirement apartment in West Vue, Inc. With two locations in West Plains, MO, this retirement community offers a range of residential care services that seniors may need as they age. Call (417) 256-2152 or visit their website to explore living options.