Wondering if you’d have enough space in senior independent living apartments? The answer is an absolute yes—especially if you follow a few simple downsizing tips and adopt a new mindset of letting yourself enjoy more freedom and more possibilities.
Downsizing tips for moving to an independent living apartment
Think about how much space you actually use now.
For example, do you have a room with a treadmill or weight bench that rarely gets used anymore? Remember that in senior living, you will have easy access to fitness equipment and resources, so you don’t need to take these things with you. Same for crafting, woodworking, or garden supplies that you might be storing in a studio or garage. Most communities have special areas for those, and you can probably keep your items there.
Consolidate your documents.
Older adults moving to senior independent living apartments can use the opportunity to really, finally get organized. Wouldn’t that be wonderful?
Take the time to sift through the old receipts, statements and other paperwork that’s cluttering your life. Decide what you could you shred, and what you want to keep. Then consider a bank safety deposit box as a way to preserve your most important papers without having to make room for them in your new apartment. Remember that many documents, such as instructions or warranties, are available online.
Downsize your furniture.
One of the perks of moving to a smaller living space is having less to worry about. That includes oversized and possibly overused furniture that you are ready to give up. Look for smaller alternatives that are comfortable and also easier to walk around, such as a love seat or smaller dining table. Think double-duty as well: today’s smart senior independent living apartments often feature ottomans, end tables and other pieces that double as extra storage.
Download our free guide: Senior Living Options – A Guide for Understanding Which Level of Care is the Best Fit.
Digitize your memories.
Take a tour of your home and see what is taking up space. Is it a bureau filled with old photos? A bookcase stacked with collections of figurines or trophies? You don’t want to give up the memories, and you don’t have to—just consider an easier way to bring them with you. For instance, photograph your collections, and keep them on your computer so you can look at them whenever you choose.
Give things away with joy.
It can be tempting to only see what you are “giving up,” instead of what you will be gaining. Just think: instead of lugging those tattered boxes full of holiday decorations with you, ask friends, neighbors and family if they would like to have them. If not, consider making a charitable donation. If there are a few items you just can’t part with, but don’t have room for, ask a family member to store them for you.
Through it all, remember that life in senior independent living apartments means being able to just walk a few steps and enjoy festive decorations and celebrations all year long—without lifting a box or crawling through an attic!
It’s the same with any of your possessions. If you no longer see yourself making use of something, think about how giving it away could bring joy to someone else’s life. It might be a raggedy chair now, but in the hands of someone who’d like to refurbish it for their apartment, it’s a treasure.
Look forward with gusto.
A long-time home can feel comfortable and familiar. But as the years go by, it also can become a heavy burden that can hold you back from really enjoying life. Senior independent living apartments are a ticket to a lighter, refreshing lifestyle that can inspire you to make new friends, try new hobbies, and fully embrace your new freedom.
Upsize your quality of life!
At St. Mark Village in Palm Harbor, Florida, you can live the good life and make new friends in our warm and welcoming senior living community in Pinellas County. We offer a wide variety of floor plans, including a smartly designed one-bedroom apartment that might be just right for a single senior. Everything you need is right here, including the guarantee a life care community offers—seamless access to future health care options. We’d love to tell you more.
You’ll feel at home right away. Download our free guide: Senior Living Options – A Guide for Understanding Which Level of Care is the Best Fit. Or contact us. We’d love to hear from you.
