8 Helpful Tips to Downsize to Assisted Living

Moving is one of the things most people dread, especially when it’s to a smaller space.

Moving represents a unique set of challenges for seniors who are downsizing to an assisted living apartment, and many need help knowing where to begin or how to navigate the process.

Downsizing to an assisted living community can be stressful, emotional, and time-consuming, but there are ways to simplify the process, minimize stress, and protect your sanity.

In this article, we have eight professional tips to help you successfully downsize to an assisted living community.

1. Start Early

Downsizing and moving is a substantial task that requires time and patience. To avoid stress, begin the process as soon as possible.

Early planning will allow you to make thoughtful decisions without feeling rushed and overwhelmed.

2. Have a Plan

A successful move requires planning and organization. Before starting, map out a clear strategy, determine when you will begin the moving process, and have an estimated completion timeline.

Purchase plenty of boxes, bubble wrap, and paper for delicate items to have everything you need.

Start with one room at a time to avoid getting overwhelmed. Seeing an empty and packed room will prevent you from feeling overwhelmed and help you feel accomplished.

3. Considering Hiring Professional Help

Moving is a lot of hard work. If you’re physically unable to handle packing boxes or lifting heavy items or don’t have the time, don't hesitate to ask for help.

Ask family and friends to help or hire professional movers. Professional movers can handle everything from packing to moving items to your new senior living apartment.

4. Declutter and Purge

As you pack up your home, create separate piles for items to throw away, donate, and give away.

This is a great time to give family members favorite items, keepsakes, and heirlooms. If you have a lot of items, consider having a garage or estate sale.

One of the best things about moving to a new space is the opportunity to start fresh without clutter.

Take only the items you love to your new assisted living apartment.

5. Measure Your New Space

Before moving into your new space, ask the community for measurements and the layout of your new floor plan. This information will help you decide what items to take and how to set up your new apartment.

6. Use Storage Solutions

When downsizing, you must adjust to a smaller living area, which means you must find ways to maximize your space.

Creative storage is the key to a successful downsize. Furniture with hidden storage compartments, under-the-bed containers, closet organizers, and vertical shelving can free up floors and maximize space.

7. Make it Fun

Moving doesn't have to be a chore.

Make it fun!

Invite friends and family over for a packing party. Order pizza and serve delicious drinks and tasty desserts. Use this time to discuss your exciting new move and reminisce about good times.

8. Patience and Positivity

Patience is a must. Moving will inevitably come with challenges and setbacks. Don’t overreact to unexpected delays and surprises.

Having a positive outlook and seeing this as a new adventure and an opportunity to meet and build relationships with new people will help you remain positive.