A Guide to Downsizing

Home Maintenance & Modifications

At some point, many of us will consider moving for retirement or because our much-loved homes no longer meet our needs. Our homes are of great value and comfort throughout our lives, and we build countless memories and traditions inside them. But as we age our lives change, and many people choose to downsize their living spaces. Senior Living estimates that more than half of Americans 50+ move into smaller homes after retirement. Downsizing can mean many things, from moving to merely reorganizing your home. While downsizing can be a bittersweet process, it can also lead to greater peace and tranquility.

When to Downsize

There may be some early signs that it’s time to downsize. Being on the lookout for these is a good idea, because downsizing is a process that should be planned for well in advance. Here are some things to keep in mind.

Cost

The cost of living has gone up significantly in recent years. If staying in your home is causing financial strain, it may be time to consider a move to somewhere more affordable. It’s also important to remember that houses need maintenance. If you have trouble maintaining a larger home, consider a cozy yet equally comfortable smaller living space. This is especially important to consider as aging decreases one’s physical ability to do household tasks and yard work.

Environment

Clutter accumulates over the years and can become a safety hazard, which is cause for downsizing. Outside of the home, the neighborhood may have changed, which could disrupt your daily routine. Similarly, the weather in certain regions could harm your health.

Social Life

One of the largest issues surrounding aging is feeling isolated, and an empty home far from family can contribute to that. If you no longer feel as connected to the community as you used to be and aren’t close to family and friends, moving closer to them can help.

If these concerns seem relatable, it could be time to downsize.

How to Downsize

Downsizing is an involved process that can be simplified with a few simple steps.

• Before starting, consider your personal needs. This results in a comfortable and happy restart that will also ease any emotional burden.
• Start planning well in advance. This makes downsizing less stressful for both you and your loved ones.
• Have a timeline and a plan. Decide whether or not and where to move, then create a timeline with easily achievable goals to break the process down into manageable parts.
• Gift and donate items. Giving household items that are no longer used to those in need will decrease the amount of things that need to be moved and can bring you closer to your loved ones.
• Digitize any photos, journals, or other essential documents. Preserving these crucial memories in advance is an excellent way to avoid losing them amidst the hustle and bustle of downsizing.

Depending on the needs of each individual, downsizing will look different. However, it’s important to remember that no matter what, the end goal of downsizing is to help you stay comfortable as you age.

Additional Resources

Redfin’s Guide for Decluttering and Downsizing