GON Reader
Question
Ideas for Downsizing/Organizing for Seniors
Do you or your readers have any ideas about downsizing or organizing for seniors...for those who plan to age in place.
We live in a 125 year old home and we have managed to move and live primarily
downstairs.
We have gotten rid of stuff, but not enough. The big cabinets/TV stand/desk are all on casters, so they roll easily to clean behind.
I’m always looking to streamline and simplify. We aren’t big into digital stuff.
I’ve made some creative helpful changes, but I’m always looking for new ideas. Thanks for your help!
--
Toni
Response from Maria
Hi Toni,
Happy to hear you're downsizing. Whether you are a senior or not, moving or not, this is always a good idea. It helps to make life easier!
Here are a few tips:
1. Set aside 10 minutes a day for this purpose: When you have a set appointment, on a specific day and a specific time, you'll be more likely to put a few items in your TO DONATE box.
2. Keep your TO DONATE box visible: Don't tuck it away. You'll be more likely to add to it when it's out in the open. Donate that box when it's full and then set another one out in the open so you continue.
3. Make believe you are moving: When you are planning a move to a smaller home, you're forced to downsize. So ask yourself, "Would I really drag this to a new home today if I were leaving?" If the answer is no, it's time to get rid of that item.
4. Don't make a MAYBE pile: Doing so does nothing more than prolong the process. Make a YES or NO decision regarding whether it stays or goes...and be sure there is three times as much in your NO pile.
5. Bring A LOT down to A LITTLE: If you have a large collection on display, perhaps take a photo of your entire collection and then just keep ONE piece for your memories. Sell or donate the rest. If you have tons of VHS/DVDs
etc. on hand, donate them. You can stream nearly everything now. If you have tons of books, donate all but your 10 favorites. Most folks only read books once and then those books sit on a bookshelf gathering dust.
Hope this helps a bit.
GON Readers: Do you have any hints to add? REPLY to this issue. I'll include your tips and ideas in a future issue of this
newsletter.