We are facing a similar decision, not yet regarding assisted living, but whether to move from our 2 level home with yard and lots of gardens to something easier...and realizing what we want is not available in our immediate neighborhood - where our kids have settled and everything we need is at hand. It is complicated by the fact that we travel half the year and feel it is a burden to our kids and our neighbor to watch over the house and yard...

What we have settled on for the short term is simplifying - shedding possessions, clearing out everything we no longer use from every shed, closet, nook and cranny. Also letting go of items from old hobbies and interests, relics that are not of interest to our kids. For example, I have a few "very special" houseplants instead of dozens, and gave away all the spare pots, trays, etc.

And I have decided to approach our city government about encouraging the next building project to be some one-level, 2-by or detached townhomes, for us younger-oldsters. Then our 4 bedroom home & yard would be ready for the next family!
Sue

Hello @nattayaleuenberger and welcome to Mayo Connect. I enjoyed reading your post about whether or not to downsize. It is a difficult thing to consider. Houses are more than dwelling places but homes with memories and those become more important as we get older (or should I say "more mature").

I'm glad that your health allows you to stay put in the home you obviously love.