Downsizing Tips for Older Adults

If you or a loved one are considering downsizing—whether to a senior living community or to a smaller home—the process can feel overwhelming. You’ll need to carefully decide what to keep, what to donate, and what to let go of. The good news is, it doesn’t have to be done all at once. With a bit of planning and some thoughtful decision-making, downsizing can be a manageable and even rewarding experience. 

As you look at your home, imagine it as a fresh start. Consider it an ideal time for “spring cleaning”—but on a bigger scale. Here are five essential tips to help you downsize efficiently and with less stress: 

1. Start with the Big Stuff

To make the process feel less daunting, tackle larger items first. Old furniture, unused appliances, or even a car that’s been sitting in the garage for years are excellent starting points. Getting rid of these big items not only creates physical space but also offers an immediate sense of accomplishment. 

According to a 2023 survey by AARP, over 65% of older adults report that downsizing involves more than just furniture—it’s about rethinking how they want to live in their new space. If you’re planning to move to a new home, be sure to measure the space beforehand. This helps determine what furniture will fit and gives you a clear sense of what needs to go. Moving is easier when you know in advance what works and what doesn’t. 

2. Pace Yourself

Research shows that people who break large tasks into smaller steps are 50% more likely to complete them successfully. Downsizing doesn’t happen overnight, and it’s crucial not to feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of stuff accumulated over a lifetime. A good approach is to break the task into smaller, manageable chunks. For example, dedicate 30 minutes a day to sorting through one section of your home, whether it's a drawer or a closet. Gradually, you'll build a routine, and it’ll become easier to make decisions as you go. 

3. Create Clear Categories

To streamline the decision-making process, divide your items into four categories: keep, discard, donate, and sell. This will prompt you to pause and evaluate each item’s significance and its role in your future life. When you’re unsure about something, it helps to think about whether you’ve used it in the past year or if it holds sentimental value. 

4. Preserve the Memories

It’s easy to part with practical items like old kitchenware or extra books, but when it comes to sentimental pieces, the decision becomes more complicated. Some items—family heirlooms, photographs, and gifts—may hold special memories that you want to cherish. 

Here’s a tip: First, identify the non-negotiables, the items you absolutely can’t part with. For other sentimental items, consider passing them along to family members who might appreciate them, or even create a digital archive. Taking photos of these items and storing them in an online album or digital scrapbook is a great way to preserve memories without cluttering your space. 

5. Make Some Extra Money

Downsizing often involves selling items that no longer serve a purpose, but you might be surprised by how much value some of these things still hold. Vintage furniture, collectibles, and even everyday items can find new life in the hands of others. Consider hosting a garage sale or selling through platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, eBay, or apps like OfferUp. 

According to a 2023 study by the National Association of Senior Move Managers, seniors who sold their items online before moving were able to recoup, on average, 35% of their moving costs from the sales. That said, online selling does come with challenges. Expect negotiations over prices and occasional no-shows. Also, weigh the pros and cons of meeting strangers in person, especially if they’re coming to your home. If that doesn’t sound appealing, consignment stores or donation centers could be a simpler option. 

Senior Living at Kalispell Assisted Living  

As you work through your spring cleaning and downsizing, it might also be time to explore living options like assisted living. Did you know that over 40% of people who transition to senior living report a significant reduction in stress, citing the peace of mind that comes with simplified living and assistance with daily chores.  

Our assisted living and memory care community is designed to give residents the freedom of independence with the safety and security of knowing support is there if you need it.  

If you’re ready to learn more about how we can support you or a loved one, please visit us online at kalispellal.com or call us at (406) 607-8639 to schedule a tour. Let us help make your downsizing journey to senior living easier.