Helping Seniors Plan Their Move

Helping Seniors Plan Their Move

Dear Phyllis,

My mother has started discussing selling her home and moving into a senior apartment complex. While I think this is a good idea, I think it’s too soon for her to give up her home. But I agree now is a good time to start planning. If we were to sell in the next year, what do you think we should be doing today? One Step Ahead

Dear One Step Ahead,

This is a great question! Take your mother to look at a couple of housing options. Once she decides how big her new place will be, she can decide what to bring. Likely, the closet, kitchen, and bathroom storage will be less than what she is used to.

Start decluttering: Does your mother have a collection of books? If so, thin them out; her favorite cookbooks might be special keepsakes for other family members. Look through your mother’s closet; I imagine it is packed. The longer one has lived in the home, the more unnecessary items one clings to. If your mother is not frequently cooking, perhaps you could pass along some of the unneeded items to family members. I still have my Grandmother’s rolling pin and garlic press; they are my favorite kitchen items.

Remember to donate what you aren’t passing on to friends or family and ask for a receipt for tax purposes. I suggest you go through papers and decide which should be saved and which should be shredded. Try to tackle one closet or one drawer a week. Try to focus on the positive aspects of downsizing,  such as less responsibility and less maintenance, because this “move down” can be a very difficult one for seniors.

If your mother seems receptive to these changes, you are probably ready to meet with a Realtor. Now might be a good time for your Realtor to provide you with a list of suggested improvements that will pay for themselves at the time of closing. Why shouldn’t your mother enjoy them another year or so?