Downsizing: How to Ease the Emotional Burden
Holly Creek - Christian Living Communities
Jun 01, 2021
Colorado - Denver Metro
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When it comes to moving to senior living, older adults must give up their homes anddownsizeto apartment living. It is quite an emotional journey, often coming with much reluctance and grief.
In additional to thelogistical detailsnecessary to make a move, here are five thoughts to consider in order to ease the emotional burden:
USE YOUR TIME WISELY
While living in and enjoying your primary home, set up a schedule to downsize your belongings and memorabilia, well before an expected move. Start with a single drawer or closet shelf, so that the emotions can be segmented in smaller moments of time and effort. Set up rewards for yourself when you accomplish each little goal.
ENGAGE YOUR FAMILY
Reminiscing about the past is so important for older adults to celebrate their accomplishments and share their values and beliefs with younger family members. Asking children and grandchildren to join the downsizing process can be an enjoyable multi-generational activity and an opportunity to share important memories. Make it into a fun afternoon to see what treasures will be discovered or how many trash bags you can fill.
DOCUMENT YOUR EXPERIENCE
Many people find journaling a cathartic experience. Perhaps downsizing brings up negative emotions. Take time to journal about these emotions and what is most difficult in the current moment. Ask yourself what you need to know, gain, or release so that you can move forward with the downsizing process.
ENVISION THE POSSIBILITIES
While any change will disrupt someones natural daily schedule and rhythm, begin to envision the positives about a smaller apartment with less responsibility,a lifestyle with more amenitiesand support, new friendships and relationships, and the opportunity for new learnings and experiences. Creating a positive vision will often help provide the momentum needed to complete the task at hand.
CREATE RITUAL
While many find enjoyment in their numerous sets of china, family photos mounted on the walls, and favorite pieces of jewelry, create a ritual to pass them down to family members or donate to families in need. Many people will often re-purpose cherished items to fit a smaller space, such as creating collages, quilts and collections from their most precious items. Perhaps writing a story about the items will help others understand their value and meaning.
Although grieving a move can be a difficult process, avoiding the grieving experience often creates unnecessary chaos and confusing if a crisis should happen without being prepared. Home is where the heart is, for sure, but there is also an age-old saying, bloom where you are planted. Older adults have been through so many changes in their lives and are much more resilient than expected. Moving to senior living is yet another stage of life, and one to be celebrated for a long life well lived.
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Moving Made Easy: Simple Tips for Seniors
Moving to a new home can be scary and stressful, especially for older people. But don't worry! Here are some easy ways to make moving day less scary and more fun.1. Pick the Right HomeFirst, choose a new home that feels good. Think about what you like. Do you want a garden view? Do you need help with cooking? Make sure your new home has what you need to be happy.2. Make ListsWrite down everything you need to do. This helps you remember important things. Start early and take your time. Don't rush!3. Choose Special ThingsWhen you move to a smaller home, you can't take everything. Pick the things that mean the most to you. It's okay to feel sad about leaving some things behind.4. Get Help from MoversHiring people to help you move can make things much easier. They know how to pack and move your stuff safely.5. Use Good BoxesUse boxes that stack well. Plastic boxes with lids are great because they're easy to pack and unpack.6. Say Goodbye to Your Old HomeHave a party to say goodbye to your old home. Take lots of pictures to remember it. This can help you feel better about moving.7. Think Happy ThoughtsMoving can be exciting! Think about all the fun new things you'll do in your new home. You might make new friends or try new activities.8. Pack a Special BagPack a bag with things you'll need right away in your new home. Put in things like:MedicineToothbrush and toothpastePajamasSnacks and waterThis way, you won't have to search through all your boxes on the first night.9. Make a Moving Day PlanPlan out your moving day. Know when you'll leave and when you should arrive at your new home. Don't forget to plan for breaks along the way.Remember, moving can be a big change, but it can also be the start of a great new adventure in your life!
Moving to Senior Living: What to Pack and What to Leave Behind
When moving to a senior living community, it's important to know what to bring and what to leave behind. This guide will help you pack smart for your new home.Before You Start PackingVisit Your New Home: Take a look at how big your new space is.Talk to Residents: Ask people who already live there about what they brought and what they wish they had.Check with Staff: Find out what furniture and items the community provides and which items are not allowed.Involve Family: Let your family pick items they might want to keep, especially heirlooms.What to BringClothes and Personal ItemsEveryday clothesToiletries like toothbrush and shampooMedicationsMobility aids, like walkers or canesSpecial ItemsPhotos and artwork that you loveSmall mementos that make you feel at homeFurniture (if there's room)A comfortable chairA small table or nightstandA bed (if not provided)Lamps for lightingOther Important ThingsBedding and blanketsKitchen items if you have a small kitchen areaTV or radio (if allowed)Pet supplies if pets are permittedWhat Not to BringExpensive jewelry or valuable items that could be lost or damagedClothes you no longer wearLarge furniture pieces that won't fitBig appliances that the community providesHeaters or air conditioners that may not be allowedLarge rugs that could be a tripping hazardRemember, your new home will be smaller, so you'll need to choose carefully what to bring. It's perfectly okay to ask for help from family or friends if packing feels overwhelming.
A Senior's Guide To A Stress-Free Relocation
Moving can be a big challenge, especially for seniors. But don't worry! With some planning and help, you can make your move smooth and easy. Let's look at some simple ways to make your summer move a success.Plan AheadStart by making a list of everything you need to do. Write down important dates and tasks. This will help you stay organized and not forget anything. Ask family or friends to help you make this list if you need to.Sort Through Your StuffBefore you start packing, go through your things. Decide what you want to keep, give away, or throw out. This is a great chance to make your new home less cluttered. Think about what will fit in your new place and what's really important to you.Stay Cool and SafeMoving in hot weather can be tough. Here are some tips to stay safe:Start early in the morning when it's coolerDrink lots of waterTake breaks in the shadeWear light, comfy clothes and a hatUse sunscreenAsk for help with heavy liftingPack SmartWhen you're ready to pack, follow these tips:Use strong boxesLabel each box clearlyPack a special box with things you'll need right away in your new homeIf packing is hard for you, ask for help or hire someone to do itTake Care of Special ItemsSome things need extra care when moving, depending on the weather. Electronics, art, and musical instruments might need to be moved in a cool truck. If you have things like this, ask for advice on how to move them safely.Get HelpMoving can be a lot of work. It's okay to ask for help. Family, friends, or professional movers can make your move much easier. They can help with packing, lifting heavy things, and setting up your new home.Stay PositiveRemember, moving to a new home can be exciting! Think about the good things about your new place. Maybe you'll be closer to family or in a nicer neighborhood. Keeping a positive attitude can make the whole process feel better.Final TipsChange your address with the post officeSet up utilities in your new home before you movePack a bag with clothes and toiletries for your first few daysTake breaks and rest when you need toMoving doesn't have to be hard. With these tips and some help, you can have a great move to your new home. Remember to take your time, stay cool, and ask for help when you need it. Happy moving!
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