Below are six common challenges you may encounter while downsizing and practical tips to overcome them.
It's important to remember your home and possessions are there to support you, not the other way around.
The best way to begin downsizing is to envision your desired lifestyle. Having a clear goal can help you determine what is and isn't a priority to keep. Instead of jumping straight into cleaning out, think about your preferences and the things you love doing. How and where you enjoy spending your time will help you in the decision-making process.
For example, a morning reader may need to have a dedicated spot for a coffee pot and a recliner. On the other hand, a cafe enthusiast might choose to skip owning a coffee maker and go out for their morning brew.
If your preferred lifestyle requires a large amount of space or items, consider alternative methods of pursuing your passions.
Instead of buying a new bookcase to house more volumes, avid readers can switch to e-books or trade titles at a used bookstore. Similarly, gardeners could rent a community garden plot or volunteer to care for the flower beds at a local church or organization.
An independent living community, such as LifeStream at Glendale, offers seniors many ways to downsize without sacrificing personal pleasures. The on-site library, computer center and creative arts room let residents pursue their favorite hobbies without the need to dedicate furnishings and space to the activities.
It's natural to feel overwhelmed at the thought of going through a house full of possessions and the memories tied to them.
Before you begin, make a point to be kind to yourself. Create a schedule that gives you plenty of time to rest to avoid becoming overwhelmed physically or emotionally.
As you sort through your items, let yourself cry and laugh. You may wish to write your memories and feelings in a journal or reminisce with a family member or friend.
After particularly emotional moments, pause to recover by relaxing with a warm drink or listening to some music. Remember your goals and why downsizing will benefit you and your family.
One of the most difficult parts of downsizing is letting go of things with sentimental value. It's common for seniors to feel stressed when trying to weigh which items are the most important to them.
If you have a lot of mementos you no longer use or have space to store, consider creating a physical or digital photo journal for them. This allows you to take pictures and write down memories associated with the items for safekeeping.
You likely already have family albums with pictures of items you no longer own, such as your first car or childhood toys. In the same fashion, these new scrapbooks let you stroll down memory lane without the need to keep all your current possessions.
Downsizing takes time. There are likely many things you can do to get started without too much trouble, such as clearing out an old junk drawer.
However, most of your downsizing will require a plan. Ask yourself how much you can handle on your own, who you can ask for help and if you want to hire a professional here in Glendale, AZ, to simplify the process.
Don't set goals that push you past your limits. Downsizing is a long-term commitment. Wearing yourself out by doing too much too fast isn't as effective as steadily completing small tasks over time.
When planning, take your personality and normal routine into account. If you prefer to accomplish a small daily goal, build a schedule in which you clear out a single drawer every day. If you prefer to rest between large projects, consider doing a closet on the weekend and resting during the week.
Like any task around the house, downsizing presents the potential for injuries. You need to prepare for safety hazards before you start. It's easy to underestimate how heavy an object is until you try to lift it or how warped and stuck a drawer has become from exposure to humidity until you try to force it open.
It's common for items to deteriorate or break while in storage for a long time, which can expose you to splinters, sharp edges and broken glass. Boxes in undisturbed locations, such as your attic or closet, may also house spiders or other unwanted pests.
To stay safe while cleaning, wear gloves and sturdy shoes. Make sure you only work in brightly lit conditions. If there isn't a light source, especially in closets and corners, use portable flashlights, lamps and lanterns to illuminate the area.
Also, avoid making piles on the floor as you work because this increases your potential to trip. Only climb on sturdy stepladders to access upper shelves or ask a loved one for help.
By taking a few precautions, you can complete your downsizing goals without jeopardizing your greatest possession: your health and wellness.
