What is downsizing for seniors?
Preparing for your future.
Everyone can benefit from a bit of downsizing. Over the years we accumulate so many useful things as well as clutter. Letting go of things we’ve acquired seems like an especially daunting process for seniors, but it can be very simple, therapeutic, and rewarding. A big part of senior living is enjoying peace of mind and having less stuff will give you exactly that.
When should I start downsizing in my home?
Start early and start small.
Downsizing is an easy task if you start chipping away at unwanted things little by little. Don’t start with big projects that may discourage you from continuing.
Consider rooms that you won’t have at your new residence and find creative ways to eliminate their clutter. Turning your home office into one desk’s worth of essentials or organizing tools into one toolbox makes for a smooth transition.
Garages and attics usually require the most attention. Holiday decorations, temporary hobby items and things that just don’t fit anywhere else usually end up here. Make a goal to pack what you need over a few weeks or months from those areas. Whatever’s left over can be sold, donated or discarded. Have a plan for where items will go and avoid “maybe” piles.
Steps to downsizing alone or with loved ones:
- Make three piles: Keep, donate and garbage
- Keep an inventory to track your progress
- Take pictures or notes of how you like things set-up
- Take your time and reminisce if you need to
- Organize room by room and don’t overwhelm yourself
What kind of things will I need to bring to my new senior living community?
We encourage you to bring your hobbies, culture and accomplishments to your new home. The things that will bring you joy and meet basic needs are important to have. At Pegasus Senior Living, we offer living spaces from spacious studios to two-bedroom apartments. We accommodate independent living, assisted living, enhanced assisted living, personal care homes, respite care and memory care.
Take into consideration all of the included services like meals, housekeeping and maintenance you’ll receive at a Pegasus community. Factor those into what you won’t need in your new home. Check our Communities page for services and apartment layouts near you.
What will I NOT need at a senior living community?
Our communities have a lot of things you’ll need. Items that are a part of your hobbies and interests or cherished memories will be important to keep.
| Area of Home | Donate or trash | Pegasus provides |
| Kitchen |
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| Closets/ Bathroom |
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| Garage |
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What are my options for downsizing?
It can be a memorable experience to have friends or family members participate in downsizing. AARP has fantastic resources on companies that specialize in downsizing as well.
Other ways to declutter are:
- Start giving away heirloom items
- Digitize photos and negatives
- Scan important documents and shred the rest
- Donate to a local charity who offers pick-up service
- Have a yard sale
- Sell items online or in consignment shops
