Easy Steps to Help You Prep for a Move

You've made the decision to move to a senior living community, and all the pieces are falling into place. You've selected your new home, are on track to sell your current house, and are looking forward to the retirement lifestyle you've always dreamed of. 

But for many people, there's one sticking point--downsizing. If you've lived in your house for three or four decades, you'll have to think about what to do with all the belongings you've accumulated over the years. 

Whether your move is months or years in the future, identifying items you no longer want or need sooner than later is the key to success. For Priority List members of Erickson Senior Living communities, this process is a breeze! 

As a planning and moving consultant at Maris Grove, an Erickson Senior Living community in the Brandywine Valley of Pennsylvania, I help Priority List members create a personalized moving plan that not only provides peace of mind but a step-by-step view into what the downsizing process will look like. 

Armed with this knowledge, Priority List members can begin taking actionable steps right away to get ahead. 

Easing in

First, I usually schedule a home visit, which gives me an opportunity to learn more about you and see how you live in your current space. If you've already selected a floor plan, I'll have an eye toward translating your lifestyle and furniture to your new residence. 

Together, we'll go from room to room, and I'll measure furniture and belongings that are most important to you. Then, I'll use a tool to illustrate how everything will fit in your particular floor plan. Once we determine what will fit comfortably in your new home, we can start to identify items that may no longer be needed. 

For those who have not yet picked a floor plan, I can suggest a range of residences that might work for you. 

Sorting and supporting

Planning and moving consultants provide a variety of options when it comes to finding new homes for items you no longer want or need, including donation, auction, estate sale, recycling, or hauling away. 

We can also introduce you to our trusted senior move management partners, who provide support by physically sorting, organizing, and taking away items through a series of downsizing sessions. 

Sometimes, while downsizing, you'll come across items that you don't need or want to take with you, but you are not quite ready to give them up. In an effort to create some breathing room, your planning and moving consultant may suggest securing short-term storage. 

This option allows you to revisit items that need more consideration than your current timeline allows. Returning to these items after the sale of your house, or following your move, can offer a fresh perspective. 

Start early

My biggest piece of advice is to start downsizing early! Set a schedule and work in areas that are the least personal first. Once you have momentum, move to things like photos, clothing, and paperwork. 

By tackling items at your pace and leaning on your planning and moving consultant and senior move manager, you'll not only downsize successfully but feel supported and engaged throughout the entire process.

Find an Erickson Senior Living community near you to learn more about the planning and moving resources available.