When the weather warms up, many people feel inspired to be more active – and that also includes motivation to do more around the home. It’s the perfect opportunity to declutter, organize and prepare for a move to a senior living community.
Are you looking for an excuse to get started or simply don’t know where to start? We’re here to help by sharing the benefits, the reasons, and the right tips to get you started.
Benefits of Decluttering and Downsizing
When many seniors hear the term “downsizing,” they often think of getting rid of many of their belongings in preparation for a move to a smaller home. While this can sometimes be true, downsizing the home doesn’t always mean moving to a smaller space!
As is the case for many seniors, sometimes it simply means upsizing their lifestyle by eliminating the hassles and worries that come along with homeownership and moving to a premier senior living community like Waterstone at Wellesley. Residents enjoy the benefits of less maintenance and upkeep in their apartment, but with the added perk of having a community full of luxury amenities and enriching services right outside their front door. In reality, residents are actually increasing their overall living space!
No matter the reason, it’s the right season to begin the decluttering and downsizing process. Here are some of the benefits:
- Gives inspiration to pack up seasonal clothes and get out warm-weather attire
- Refreshes the home for a new season
- Frees up storage spaces
- Allows you to pass on unneeded items to family or friends
- Provides the opportunity to throw a summer yard sale
- Helps you and your family feel more prepared for the future
Helpful Tips for Seniors and Their Families
If you’re looking for organizing and downsizing tips, you’re in the right place. Pack up your worries and unpack the best place to begin with our expert advice.
Prepare Ahead of Time
The best way to start your cleaning, decluttering and organizing journey is to put one foot in front of the other. It really is that simple. Make a list of spaces that need cleaning, plan to go room by room, and stick to your plan. This ensures you won’t get overwhelmed or make an even bigger mess.
Want to be even more prepared? Make a list of cleaning goals. If you know you want to clean all the windows or dust, write it down. If a room needs more intensive cleaning, gather a list of local cleaners.
One surefire way to make sure you stay on task? Buy and have on hand all the cleaning products you need so you don’t have to stop mid-job to go shopping for supplies.
Involve Family Members
When deep cleaning and downsizing, the more help, the better! Whether you’re downsizing for yourself or for your loved one, be sure to ask for the help you need. Consider:
- Asking older grandkids to assist with moving heavy items
- Designating a friend to take items to a donation box
- Having someone do yardwork or landscaping to amp up real estate value for a move to a senior living community
- Placing one person in charge of cleaning windows, another in charge of boxing items, and so on
Check on Home Safety Items
While you’re in the midst of the process, it’s a great time to check on home safety measures. Are your or a loved one’s fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors working properly? If not, make sure to install fresh batteries. Confirm that fire extinguishers are on hand and tripping hazards have been removed. Remember to replace air and water filters and check to make sure air conditioners work – something that can decrease the risk of heat illnesses as the seasons continue to change.
Don’t Forget Often-Missed Spaces
It’s no secret that rooms like the kitchen, bedrooms, storage areas and living rooms are often the first focus, but don’t forget about spaces like the medicine cabinet, underneath the sink, or the office and filing cabinets.
Making Cleaning and Decluttering Easier – One Move at a Time
We know the downsizing process can be an overwhelming task for even the most organized older adults and family members. The good news? Once you’re done, you can breathe easy – especially with a move to Waterstone at Wellesley where we take care of all maintenance, housekeeping and more. Instead, you can focus on enjoying a summer of joy, freedom and fun!
Waterstone at Wellesley. Now This Is Home.
Waterstone at Wellesley offers independent living and assisted living options in beautiful Wellesley, along the banks of the Charles River. Schedule a visit today to experience our lifestyle and learn how we help seniors thrive.