Downsizing: Practicalities & Emotions
The time has come to downsize and move. Now come the questions: Where to start? What should I take? Who wants the remaining items? Who is going to help? What about packing and the actual move? The practical logistics are enough to make anyone’s head spin, but it’s often the emotions of downsizing that slow the process.
It is not uncommon for people downsizing to feel a bit depressed. Downsizing, by definition, means becoming “less” in terms of space and objects, and the transition can be difficult. And then there is sorting through a lifetime’s worth of possessions that simply won’t fit into a smaller space.
Some objects are easy to let go of, but others can trigger precious memories. Even folks who are not particularly prone to becoming attached to possessions can get bogged down in memories and emotions as they try to determine what to let go of. It’s not unusual for people to get stuck at this point in the downsizing process. Too often, they decide not to move or say, “just chuck it all,” and buy new. Neither is a perfect solution.
Equipped to handle the practicalities of downsizing and moving, a Senior Move Manager® can also offer invaluable support when dealing with the emotions of the transition. They understand that a person downsizing is vulnerable, and that patience and compassion are needed. A Senior Move Manager® knows many conversations will need to take place for a client to determine what possessions they should take with them and those they need to let go of. Listening to the story of why an object is important is a critical function of a Senior Move Manager®, even if the object ultimately doesn’t move to the new home, because it can help someone downsizing feel that they and their lives have mattered. A Senior Move Manager® can help a person downsizing understand that while their possessions and space may be becoming “less”, they are not.
As a neutral party, a Senior Move Manager® is often in a better position to present the practicalities of downsizing than a family member. Using a floor plan of the new residence, a Senior Move Manager® provides a realistic view of what will and will not fit in the new home. They will ask questions about the available walking space. Even if a client doesn’t need a walker or wheelchair right now, might they need one in the future? Will guests have walkers and need space to maneuver? What about area rugs? Yes, they are pretty, but they are also trip hazards. The day-to-day function of the new space is discussed, making it easier to identify what possessions to let go of.
Other practicalities, such as cooking arrangements, are also brought up. A Senior Move Manager® may ask, for example, “Will you still be hosting large gatherings?” If not, then the turkey roasting pan isn’t needed, nor the table setting for twelve. Will you still need 25 highball glasses? Where would 25 people even fit in your new place? A Senior Move Manager® can ask questions with humor to keep the downsizing process moving along.
Downsizing is an emotional as well as a practical process. In addition to managing the practicalities, Senior Move Manager® can offer valuable support in handling the emotions of downsizing with compassion and humor.
AUTHOR: Marilyn Leek, a Certified Senior Move Manager® and owner of Chesapeake Transitions, has provided guidance and support for Maryland seniors and their families for over 15 years.