Moving, at any point in your life is overwhelming, whether it is into your first apartment, new home or retirement residence. The to-do-list can be daunting to say the least, but making the move from a family home into a retirement residence or assisted living facility adds a large emotional aspect. Most of the time, this move means downsizing from a home to apartment style accommodation. With this comes the thought of going through years of treasured personal items which, understandably, causes some stress.
Getting rid of these treasured items is an emotional loss for some of us and as with any loss it is important to honour the emotion that goes along with it. The memories and stories surrounding these items is often more important than the item itself so consider taking the extra time to create a keepsake book of photos and stories to help cherish and remember these memories.
It is also much easier to part with things if we know they will be used or appreciated by someone else. So research companies in your area who can help you sell, donate or recycle unwanted items. You will also come across items that you already have a home in mind for, for example items you want your family and friends to enjoy. Having a contact list ready before hand, will make it easier when or if you need to contact them.
Now you can break the process down into manageable tasks. I recommend starting by getting rid of the obvious. Every home has its chipped coffee mugs, collection of flyers, pens that don’t write, duplicate coffee makers and mismatched socks. Once you have finished this take a thorough look in your closets and drawers to remove clothes that don’t fit, or those you haven’t worn in the past year. This will help you get started and ease yourself into the process.
Next, consider tackling the areas of the house you use the least. For example the spare room or garage. These spaces are less likely to be over-cluttered so you will see faster progress, keeping the momentum going.
Select furnishings, keepsakes and meaningful decorations to move with you. Be sure to have a clear objective in mind, the best approach is to bring enough to fit the space without overwhelming it. Make sure you have your new floor plan, a tape measure and some patience. Begin selecting items that are both functional and familiar. Make sure to incorporate your favourite paintings, framed photographs, treasured souvenirs, family heirlooms and most cherished personal items. This will create a comfortable atmosphere that will make your new place feel like home.
The next step is determining items that can be sold, auctioned or donated. Selling items is a fantastic option because someone else can cherish the item and make their own stories around them. For items that are not sellable, you can donate them to local charities and people in need. There are also some organizations that will provide you with tax receipts for your donated items.
Moving into a retirement residence isn’t always easy, but you are not on your own. There are so many resources to help and people, just like you, who have made the transition that would be happy to share their story.
For more information about local downsizing resources email Suzie Mandziak at smandziak@masterpieceretirement.com. Suzie is the Lifestyles Manager at Masterpiece River Ridge, a retirement residence in Medicine Hat , Alberta
