As retirement and empty nest syndrome approaches, it’s natural for those 50+ to take stock and think about what the next phase of life will look like. For many, that means downsizing. Whether it’s moving into a smaller home that’s easier to maintain, a community for the 55+ set, or another living arrangement, you may be starting your next chapter in a completely different place. Talking about making a change is one thing—taking the step is another. So where do you start?
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First, get in the right mindset. Downsizing isn’t necessarily a bad thing. In fact, Jami Shapiro, certified senior advisor and founder of Silver Linings Transitions, calls it something else. “I prefer the term ‘rightsizing’, because ‘downsizing’ has such a negative connotation. Rightsizing is more positive because it’s ‘right’ for the life you’re living now,” she explains.
Having the conversation
But like most big changes, taking that first step can be difficult. Jack and Ana Fuquay of Bee Organized Fort Lauderdale frequently work with people transitioning to new homes. Ana Fuquay suggests taking baby steps because making a big change can be overwhelming. “The conversation may be initiated with some fear, and questions like ‘How are we going to do this?’, or ‘Where do we start?’ are common. There’s a lot of planning that has to happen before people reach out to people like us or to movers. There’s the thought of whether a person is moving to their last home. There’s a lot of discussion that has to happen, because these are big decisions for people,” she says.
When you have made the decision to move, think about the type of place you want to live. Consider your health and your spouse’s and come up with a “must have” and “nice to have” list. Do you want a smaller home that’s easier to maintain? An apartment or condominium in a 55+ community where maintenance like shoveling snow or mowing the lawn is taken care of? Do health issues mean assisted living is a possibility? If your children are assisting with the transition, consider their input, as well.
Prepping the space
Regardless of where you’re moving, you’ll likely have to part with some of your belongings. This is the perfect opportunity to go through your home’s storage areas and clear out the items you no longer want, use, or need. Even if you are excited about the move, sorting through your possessions can be an emotional task. The Fuquays have seen people run the emotional gamut. Sometimes working with an impartial third party like a trusted friend, neighbor, relative, or hired professional organizer who has no sentimental attachment to your belongings makes the job easier…