Downsizing your parent’s home can be a very big challenge, but it can also be incredibly important to their well-being. Odds are, your parent’s home might have too many stairs for their advanced age. If they do not have an issue with the stairs now, they most likely will in the future. Moving your parent(s) to a smaller apartment or condo can make getting around their living space much easier. Downsizing has plenty of challenges, so here are a few tips to limit the headaches.
New Year, New Home
January is a great time to declutter, and begin the process. Elderly adults are also more likely to take stock after the holidays of their living situation, and may want to downsize themselves. If your loved one suggests it, jump on the opportunity.
In January, many companies offer deals for people looking to get started on New Year’s Resolutions. Start your parent’s New Year off with some cleaning. It can be difficult, both physically and emotionally, to go through 40 or 50 years of furniture, knick-knacks, and old photos. Take it slow if needed, but try not to lose steam.
Downsize Before They Need To
Too many people wait until they can’t make it up the stairs to consider moving to a one floor home. It is best to downsize before it is necessary. It is best to do it with them, and not for them. If you wait until after your loved one has a stroke, or develops dementia, the change in environment can be confusing for them. Encourage them by having them make the choices in their new home. That way they can still live the way they want to.
Manage Expectations of Profit
Most likely, your parent will assume their furniture and decor will sell for a lot of extra money. But odds are, you will be lucky to get half of what they want for each piece. It is going to be difficult to move their unneeded items at their high prices. They may expect to get back what they paid for it, or even more. That will most likely never happen. Look at sites like Craigslist, and the Facebook Marketplace, to see what similar items are selling for in your area. Expect to sell most of the bigger items on those sites, and hold a yard sale for most of their smaller stuff.
Giving Things Away
Help your parents pass their heirlooms and other prized possessions that they might not need to other members of the family. Donate old clothes, and find loved ones that can make good use of items that are not selling. Help them appreciate the joy of passing down family treasures to their children or grandkids.
Downsizing is a Fresh Start
It can be hard for your parents to leave a home that they have lived in for decades. But it can also be the start of a new chapter in their life. Downsizing to an apartment can also be another stage in retirement. No more mowing the lawn, or shoveling the walk. It can be cathartic for them to not have to worry about home repairs anymore. Less rooms also means less vacuuming and cleaning. Downsizing can help your loved one stay independent, and live easier
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services does not provide medical or healthcare advice via articles. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for medical advice.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services has been providing excellent home care on Staten Island since 1967. Our services help the elderly and disabled live safely and independently; while giving their families the peace of mind they need. For more information contact Safe Harbor by clicking here, or call us at (718)-979-6900.
