How Do You Downsize to Assisted Living?

Planning, organization, time and assistance from loved ones can help you downsize before moving to an assisted living community. Considered and measured preparation helps lower the risk of relocation stress and can make the transition to a new living environment easier.

Because facilities differ, keep in mind whether your chosen assisted living community offers unfurnished, partially furnished or fully furnished accommodations, storage space availability and the size and layout of your new room.

To begin, methodically go through each room of your home and remove anything you no longer want or need. Enlist family and friends to help with heavy lifting, practical guidance and emotional support. Giving away items to loved ones or donating them to charities can make the process easier. You may consider selling certain possessions to help with the senior care costs. Separate the remaining items into those you must keep, such as everyday clothing and bed linens, and those to keep if space allows.

Don’t neglect items with sentimental value; often, these are the items that may bring you the most comfort and joy. Although you shouldn’t be too hasty to eliminate treasured keepsakes, there may be ways to reduce their footprint, for example, by creating digital photo albums and online music collections. When prioritizing furnishings, measure and ensure they fit in your new space. Replace space-consuming items with more compact options.

If, after sorting your belongings, you still have too much to take with you when you move, find out whether any friends or family members can store smaller items or boxes for you. Also consider paid storage solutions, taking into account practicality, affordability and ease of access. Setting a moving date and arranging transportation in advance can relieve last-minute stress for a more seamless transition. When you move to assisted living, personalize your space as soon as possible to make it feel like home and help you settle in.