Of course I believe that every older adult can benefit from engaging the services of a sensitive, knowledgeable and objective Senior Move Manager.
A savvy Senior Move Manager can help to keep you focused and the project on schedule. We can link you with reputable movers and other trusted service providers so that you have vetted professionals on your team. We can help you to cost effectively get rid of the things you don’t need. We can do your packing in one day and unpack and set everything up for you in your new home.
But I know that there will always be those who choose to tackle the project on their own. I have noted 5 tips that will help to keep your transition running smoother.
1. Start early! I can’t emphasize this enough. It takes longer than you think. Going through a lot of belongings means experiencing a lot of memories. It’s tiring and I generally recommend that downsizing be scheduled in three or four hour sessions. My older clients are often surprised that they feel tired, even though they have been sitting throughout the process.
2. Take one room or zone at a time. It helps with focus as well as efficiency.
3. Use your new space as a guide. If you are moving from a four bedroom house to a two bedroom condo, it isn’t all going to fit. Likewise if you are moving from a condo to a smaller suite in a retirement residence.
4. Separate:
a. What you are keeping,
b. What you are gifting or sharing with family or friends,
c. What you may be hoping to sell,
d. What you are donating,
e. What goes into recycling or the garbage.
In this process I recommend not having a category called “Maybe”. Often a decision is not reached and items are kept by default.
5. Be creative. Digitally organize photos and keep favourites or the bests in a category. Repurpose. If an entire collection won’t fit, perhaps one special piece can hold a place of honour in your new space. Choose to keep only the items that make you smile. Life is short and there is no point in keeping an item if it is going to sit in the back of a cupboard.
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