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5 Fast Downsizing Tips for Seniors

We have 5 fast and logical tips to consider as you get closer to making a move to a new, smaller home or just a move towards a less-cluttered life.

by

Matt Paxton

September 19, 2019

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As the years stretch on and we find ourselves in conversations about simplifying our lives and the impact of our material footprint, we are all called to consider the big “D”: Downsizing. This word can strike a chord that sounds a lot like terror for those Seniors who know they have to start the process but are too overwhelmed with thoughts of boxes and trash bins to actually get going.

Never fear.

We have 5 fast and logical tips to consider as you get closer to making a move to a new, smaller home or just a move towards a less-cluttered life.

First, start small but start early. Try dedicating ten minutes a day to the task, covering one 1’x1’ square at a time. Doesn’t sound too bad, right? Do your first ten minutes after you finish this article. It doesn’t hurt, we promise.

Second, start thinking of everything in these categories: Keep, Sell, Discard, Donate. It’s your new downsizing mantra. Keep, Sell, Discard, Donate. We also recommend getting painter’s tape in four colors to correspond with those four categories so you can tag items as you do your 10 minutes a day so you can keep track of your sorting without harming the surface of the items. Keep, Sell, Discard, Donate.

Next, get rid of duplicates. Thirteen pairs of scissors? Four pasta spoon/fork thingies? Ten glass vases of the exact same size, shape and hue from the florist? Easy problems to solve. Tag your duplicates with the appropriate tape color and get them out of your drawers and out of your home.

Consider your own Legacy List. What heirlooms would you like to leave to which family members? Which pieces need explanation or documentation? Can you gift those items to your loved ones now? It may be the time to give that family clock to your granddaughter (who has always loved it) and enjoy the opportunity explain why it is so important to you. Document the discussion of the item with a video so it’s properly chronicled, and she’ll cherish it forever.

Finally, cut yourself some slack. It’s okay to pause and let nostalgia wash over you. It’s okay to remember. And it’s okay and completely appropriate if it feels stressful and exhausting. Take a break and come back to it tomorrow.

Also, Keep, Sell, Discard, Donate.


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