Tips for Helping a Senior Downsize to a Smaller Home

by Team Stiles

Seniors face big decisions about where to live in retirement. Older adults often find that their homes have become too hard to maintain or navigate, or that they’re too expensive to keep. Downsizing to a smaller home may be the best move, but this process can be difficult. If you’re helping a senior loved one move to a new home, keep these helpful tips in mind from Team Stiles.

Prioritize what needs to be moved through decluttering

Sorting through belongings a senior has had for years can be a slow process, as older adults can start to feel overwhelmed by how much there is to go through. Here are some helpful tips on how to tackle this project.

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Help them find a senior-friendly home

House-hunting is a tough job to do on your own, so help your senior loved one with this step. Working with a trusted real estate brokerage like Team Stiles can also be a big help, but your support will be especially meaningful.

Make Your Home Elder-Friendly
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Hire help to make downsizing easier

Hiring help will not only take the stress out of downsizing, but it’s an important safety measure. No matter how healthy your loved one is, seniors shouldn’t be responsible for moving heavy boxes on their own, and excess “stuff” in their living spaces creates safety hazards.

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As you help your senior loved one downsize, help them be realistic about where to move and what to take. Moving to a smaller home can be an emotional process, but with your support, they’ll move forward with excitement rather than fear.

[Image via Pixabay]

Indy area-based Team Stiles is here to assist you with your home buying and selling needs from start to finish. Reach out to us today! 317-883-9461