Resolving the Downsizing Dilemma

By Chloe JonPaul

Where are you right now?  Still in your house? Moved but confused?  As we age, change is inevitable but if you view it as a challenge instead of a problem, you’ll be just fine!

If you are considering a move to a senior residence (independent living) here is an action plan that really works!  Now… to keep or not to keep!

Your first order of business:  

• Walk through your current dwelling and evaluate everything you come across: furniture, books, food, tools, etc.  Ask yourself: How often have I used it in the last year?
• Label 5 boxes: New Home, Giveaways, Donate, Undecided, trash
• Measure your furniture and get room measurements of your projected living quarters
• Schedule your time spending 15-20 minutes in each room. Start in one corner of the room using your 5 boxes.
• Plan an estate sale for large items.
• Use a storage unit only as a last resort.

TRIED-AND-TRUE HELPFUL HINTS 

In your smaller dwelling, consider the following:

• Bedroom & Closet: Underbed storage using Whitmore linen soft storage jumbo zippered bag, storage bench, Magical space-saving chrome hangers, swing arm slack hangers, foldable storage cube bins (sold at Dollar Tree)
• Kitchen: Remove boxes from packaged goods and store items in plastic bins or small crates that fit on a shelf.  This saves lots of space!
• Living/Dining Room Area: You don’t need to entertain more than 2 persons at a time so consider: a 3pc. Dinette set, love seat vs. sofa, wall hangings that are meaningful, TV, desk w/computer, 2 bookcases.
• An efficiency apartment can hold these items nicely.

PURCHASED ITEMS THAT HAVE WORKED FOR ME

* Techni Mobili MDF compact computer desk
* RCA LED/LCD TV-DVD Combo
* 4-panel natural room divider shoji screen  
* Polder Compact accordion clothes drying rack that you can keep in your bathroom tub  
* Simple Designs LT 2014 2pk. Mini-touch Table Lamp Set.

FINAL REMARKS

It has been estimated that 80% of what we own, we never use.  Down-sizing creates a calmer environment, reducing stress, saving time and money.  By the way, I’ve never seen a Fed Ex truck following a hearse to the cemetery

Down-sizing affects us physically, emotionally, and spiritually so be sure to take a break – and for those of you inclined to pray, ask for a little PEP…patience, endurance, and perseverance.