Helping Our Loved One Enjoy Their Golden Years by Downsizing

by Denise Mason 09/08/2021


 Photo by Gerd Altmann via Pixabay

There comes a time when family members must confront the realities of aging. It’s not uncommon for our parents and grandparents to still be living in properties that once housed multiple family members. The upkeep required for such residencies can place an undue burden on our elders, and downsizing remains a logical solution. That brings us to what everyday people need to know about how to help loved ones relocate, so they can enjoy their golden years to the fullest.

Have A Family Conversation About Moving

It’s not uncommon for well-meaning people to get frustrated when elders resist the notion of change. However, the sometimes difficult conversation about a valued elder’s diminishing ability to maintain a household must be approached with compassion and express the underlying loving intentions.

Keep in mind that they may have deep emotional connections to family homes, and you may be part of those feelings. From a parent or grandparent's perspective, leaving that place involves no longer living in a space where children took their first steps and other milestones. These connections are genuine, and it’s essential to bridge the conversation with facts, as well as feelings. These are items to discuss with great sensitivity.

  • Downsizing Provides A Manageable Space
  • Moving Could Bring Family Members Closer Together
  • The Process Is About Returning The Care You Received

It’s crucial to listen attentively to the emotional and fact-based issues that your elders bring up. Finding adequate resolutions can go a long way to laying the groundwork for a smooth transition.

Put Together A Moving Day Plan

Because the move is likely to include downsizing, creating a plan about what happens to items that will not make the trip remains a vital first step. Your loved one may have sentimental attachments to bulky furniture and a garage filled with boxed memories. Finding a suitable home for items that are not sellable or discardable is a must. Talking to your elder family members about passing on important heirlooms and keepsakes can yield a positive result. Other items might be good candidates for a self-storage unit. 

Tips

Sort And Organize

Securing items in labeled boxes that designate a particular room generally improves moving logistics. This process often requires more time and energy than the actual move and unpacking. Gathering friends and relatives to work through this labor-intensive aspect can streamline the time and make it more enjoyable for all. It’s sort of like a mini family gathering and worth a potluck meal or ordering pizza.

Moving Day Matters

Having appropriate-sized moving vehicles and enough strong backs are absolutely necessary. Successful moves often enlist a few extra friends to account for no-shows and the possibility of underestimating the amount of labor needed. Pack the vehicles with diligent care to minimize breaks and damage.

Efficient unloading entails placing each labeled box in its respective room for unpacking. It may be worthwhile to select a few team members to immediately begin unpacking necessities and setting up essentials such as a bed, table, chairs, and other items needed for prompt livability.

Making the moving experience a joyous event for your loved ones sets a tone that they are gaining an improved quality of life experience. It’s all about love and good logistics. 

About the Author
Author

Denise Mason

Hi! I'm Denise Mason. WELCOME to my Website! Being a full-time REALTOR® gives me the opportunity to assist in achieving your wants, desires, needs, and priorities in selling or finding a home. My goal is to take care of my real estate clients by providing an exceptional, no drama experience that you not only deserve but should demand in the hectic and competitive marketplace of today. I work closely with you throughout your entire real estate transaction. I work to be your family REALTOR® for life. Success begins and ends with good communication. I love what I do and do what I love! I am positive, enthusiastic and truly enjoy people and the real estate business. My commitment to you, my client extends far beyond a single transaction. My goal is to communicate, educate and exceed expectations! As the daughter, wife, and mother of active duty and retired service members, I've had numerous relocation experiences; renting, buying and selling a home. I grew up in Arlington County, VA and lived there for more than 20 years. Upon my husband's retirement from the Army we could think of no better place to call home than Virginia, the place of our childhood. I have been a Prince William County resident since 1997. We have raised and educated three children in the Prince William County School system. My family is my pride and priority which makes me no different than you or any other individual who wants a safe and comfortable environment for yourself, family and friends. I look forward to helping you achieve your real estate goals. Call me at 703-283-0969 or email me so we can meet over tea or coffee & I can get to work for you!