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Downsizing, To Move or Not to Move? That is the Question
Aging Well | Last Active: 9 hours ago | Replies (477)Comment receiving replies
We are in the process now. After accepting the emotional challenge, I know we can do it. We have property to dispose of-where we have lived for 45+ years. Built the house ourselves-lots of great memories here. As an elder friend once told me, "We are caretakers for a short time, then it is our job to find the next caretaker". My husband said, to stay here is no longer practical. So we are building a much smaller home near our daughter and preferred medical care. I have begun the downsizing part, getting rid of books, sorting clothing, getting rid of kitchen appliances, large sized pots and pans etc that I use to use when all of the family was here for special occasions and holidays. That duty was handed down to our daughter last Christmas. I'm letting our daughter and my sister select anything they want, then grandchildren. If you have good housekeeping items to dispose of, the Woman's Crisis Center is a great option for donating. In our area, they keep a small warehouse where they put donated items. The women can select things for their new home. I've taken loads there, knowing that the items will help someone move toward a better life has made it much easier for me to let go of items. I had tons of quilt material and other craft stuff I'll never use-I found family and friends that are enjoying their new treasure trove of supplies. My goal has been to set out at least one bag of trash and take one trunk load of items for donating each week. It doesn't seem so overwhelming and week by week, it adds up. Don't be afraid to ask for help, our family and friends have been wonderful. It's a process. Wishing you well in your move.
Replies to "We are in the process now. After accepting the emotional challenge, I know we can do..."
Youve got a really good plan, ann59. I think you're so right, the first thing in any downsizing is your head!~ Get your mind and emotions to the place you can see the value of letting go. Get much of the emotions out of the items themselves. That was truly the toughest part for me, since so much was wrapped up with my mother, whom I was with during her very long alzheimier's journey. We did so much together with no other family around, so my memories were all tangled up with hers. I've worked through years of this and now can actually enjoy the giving, seeing others use and enjoy what I've basically been storing for so long. My son hasn't married and has no children, my siblings and their children are not in the picture, since Mom's illness - as often happens in families w/altzheimers. I donate to our Women's Crisis Center! Love to give them clothes, anything...and there's another I like that has a big store to sell and make $ for the charity. I prefer local charities, actually. And so the journey's next leg begins.....Blessings in yours.
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@ess77 and @ann59 It always helps to have a plan in mind. Of course, there are lots of factors that can change things, but at least starting with a specific point sure is a big help! Like you have mentioned, at the beginning it seems so overwhelming, but taking little bites you eventually get the whole elephant eaten. Having a place to donate good usable household items is so important these days, and there are many who can use them. I never feel bad about moving and rehoming things that others can use! Likewise I have no problem gifting off fabric for those who want to make masks, and rehome yarn for people who need something to keep their hands busy. Heaven only knows I have more than I'll ever need LOL
Ginger