Downsizing Tips for Seniors

Downsizing can be part of a positive retirement lifestyle when handled with planning and support.

Retirement can be a new chapter, and downsizing may be part of simplifying life. Whether you are moving to a smaller home or simply reducing clutter where you already live, a plan makes the process easier.

Start With a Plan

Rather than trying to clear everything at once, work room by room and decide what should be kept, donated, sold or discarded. If you are moving, packing a manageable number of boxes each day can prevent the process from becoming overwhelming.

When deciding what to keep, consider how often an item is used, whether it has real financial or sentimental value, whether it fits your current lifestyle and whether it creates a safety or storage problem.

Consider Safety and Home Hazards for Falls

Downsizing is also a good time to evaluate the home for hazards that may become more important later. Common concerns include:

• Poor lighting
• Cluttered walkways
• Slippery surfaces, especially in the bathroom
• Objects left on stairs or floors
• Loose rugs
• Lack of secure grab bars
• Unsteady furniture

If getting in and out of the bathtub is becoming difficult, this may also be the right time to consider a tub-to-shower conversion or another accessibility improvement. Modifying an existing bathtub can often be done without the cost and disruption of a complete bathroom renovation.