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Downsizing, To Move or Not to Move? That is the Question
Aging Well | Last Active: Mar 23 9:13pm | Replies (473)Comment receiving replies
Yes, for many downsizing is highly emotional often at times to their own detriment. Please do downsize AND declutter NOW, when you are still able to walk and lift light boxes. As a former realtor I have seen sad situation(s) when the garage is filled to the brink with boxes of "stuff" as the wife is hovering, looking completely distressed trying to sort out what to keep, as her spouse looks at her from the side with both his hands on a walker, completely unable to help her. Give to friends, family whatever you can, keep your photos, special keepsakes, etc., and donate or trash the rest.
I decluttered in a major way years ago, in early 50s after both kids moved out..and continue to declutter every year. I also, have seen the nightmare of junk and emotions, and heavy lifting, that loved ones have to deal with after the passing of a relative, who never decluttered or downsized...the mortgage, or rent, and expenses, etc. is a major nightmare that I lived for my own mother too. I won't do that to my own adult kids..they have a job, limited vacation, etc.
A good realtor is trained to help with these emotions AND they can help you find senior housing, rentals for seniors, etc...even if you are a renter. In the end, no one will care about our material earthly belongings at all, not us as we die, or our loved ones likely either..
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@tinamaria1 - Really, really helpful! As I've been recovering from a procedure about 45 days ago I've been wandering around our house, ready to walk around with a "bag" of some sort, with my fiance next to me, and donate + trash + recycle + gift + consignment throughout our 3-story + full basement home.
I've hired an organizer, which I've used 3 times before in my life. As I now live in an area where there are no Professional Organizers, I've been lucky so far to reach out to an organizing business and find an organizer who will drive the extra distance (at the hourly compensation fee for travel above 45 minutes, each way) - but if it gets the job done, it'll be worth it - though I know it can accumulate again!
Also, there are highly reputable certified Professional Organizers that specialize in senior downsizing, and, if it works for you in your situation, can advise, coach and delegate virtually (through Zoom sessions). I did this last year, and it was very helpful emotionally and did get a key area of my home cleared and back to its intended use. Glad to share the link if anyone is interested.
Anyway, need all the encouragement, as I know how it has gone for me, but as I've just faced what I hope is a temporary medical encumbrance, if I'm smart, I'll keep this in the forefront as I recover and get onto the business of "less is more", especially as we get "more" in years!!
Thank you.