A practical guide to downsizing

Any move can be challenging, but downsizing in particular can be tricky. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the process.

1. Choosing a new home
The first thing to do when downsizing is to choose where you’ll live. This decision will help determine which belongings you should hold on to, and how many of them you can bring along.

Keep in mind that moving to a smaller house or a condo doesn’t come with the same limitations as moving in with family, an assisted living facility or retirement community. It’s therefore a good idea to weigh your options carefully.

When choosing your next residence, consider your current needs and how they might change as you age. Open and honest communication between you and family members is the key to ensuring that you get the support you need and that your new accommodations meet your requirements.

2. Planning for the move
Start planning your move well before you put your house up for sale or give notice at your rental. Write out a detailed plan and make a list of the tasks that need to be completed. Assign those tasks to everyone involved in the move. If you need to hire professionals to assist you, be sure to do so ahead of time. Being organized is the best way to ensure that your move goes smoothly.

3. Decluttering and sorting belongings
This step can be trying, both on a practical level and on an emotional one. However, the simplest way to approach it is to deal with one room at a time.

Separate your belongings into five categories: keep, give away, donate, sell and throw out. To assess where a particular item should go, here are some helpful questions to ask:

• How necessary is it?
• How often is it used?
• Will it fit in the new space?
• Does it have sentimental value?
• Does it have monetary value?
• Are there multiples?

Don’t worry if the sorting process needs to be repeated. Give yourself the time and space to go through items at a pace that’s comfortable to you.

Finally, if you feel overwhelmed or need more help, know that some companies specialize in helping seniors downsize.