How Embracing Downsizing Can Benefit
Your Life as a Senior
Tiny living trend aside, downsizing makes a
good deal of sense for many of us as we age. And no, that doesn’t mean we
choose to live in miniature houses the size of a studio apartment. Instead, it
means we should look for a home that makes sense for our lives. If you are
thinking of downsizing, here is what you need to know before you dive in.
Decreasing
Stuff
Arguably, the most difficult aspect of
downsizing is deciding what you can let go of and what you cannot live without.
The first thing to consider is if the home you are looking for will fit the
size of your current furniture. When we downsize, we look for
something smaller to have less work in maintenance, and to spend more time
doing the things we love. That does, however, mean we have less space for our
things. Furniture, unless it holds fond memories, is an easy decision. You also
don’t need to take your appliances with you unless you’re traveling a short
distance. Keep things that have an emotional connection, such as photos and other pieces of your life. Also,
take your wardrobe into consideration. If you have not worn something in recent
memory, think about if you really need it. If not, it may be time to donate it.
Looking
for Your Home
Your perfect home may not be in your immediate
vicinity. It may be closer to family, friends, and across the country. In such
cases, it’s wise to research an area online to better understand what the
potential cost of housing will be in the size and location of your choice. It’s
also important to determine how much house you can afford before you start
shopping. You may want to move somewhere with a lower cost of living or better tax benefits
than you currently have. However, you don’t want the community you choose to be
too small, as that may mean fewer services will be available. If possible, visit the place you would like to retire to
before you make a firm decision. You will want to learn about the area, how
easy it will be to make friends, and if you will really love the climate.
Regardless of where you choose, be absolutely certain it offers support to
seniors, especially if you won’t be near family or established friends.
Plan
for the Future
Even those of us who are fully able-bodied
today may find that, as we age, we need different things from our homes. When
scouting for a house to downsize into, look for ones that boast universal design. Such layouts are functional
for those with and without disabilities. Single-story, or ranch-style, homes
are a good idea, as they can protect your joints from stairs. Of course, you
can always look for a home that appeals to you and modify it. For example, you
may want farmhouse-style or a wraparound porch, but the only homes within your
budget are not accessible. Many modifications can be done on a budget and
easily installed. Grab bars are helpful in bathrooms (and can be installed for around $200), and it’s easy to replace handles for ones that are easy to
turn. If there isn’t enough lighting, you may need to install additional light
fixtures. The average cost of installing electrical switches, outlets, and
fixtures in Boise ranges from $107 to $309.
Preparing
for the Move
The best thing to do for a long move is to pack well so your moving process is as smooth
as possible. You don’t just want to label your boxes as clearly as you can, but
you want to ensure that they are packed full. If there is space at the top,
there is space for your things to bang around and possibly break. If relocating
across the country, the moving company you hired may have a large delivery
window, in excess of three weeks. You will need enough clothing and other
supplies to last the length of that period. Take all personal or expensive
items you don’t want to lose with you personally, as you don’t want a nasty
surprise of losing them in the process.
Downsizing does not mean downgrading. Often,
moving to a smaller home can improve your overall quality of life. If you
prepare well beforehand and think your move through, you may find yourself
happier than you’ve ever been.
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