Downsizing for Retirement

A carefree retirement is one of life’s greatest joys. But, like many things, it takes a bit of planning and preparation to happen. In addition to choosing where you will enjoy your post-work years, retirement often involves downsizing and moving.

Here are four practical downsizing tips for seniors to help you prepare your home for retirement—including how The Roosevelt in Elmhurst, IL, and our exciting multi-million dollar renovation, can help.

Plan Ahead

Having a clear vision of your future can make the process of downsizing for retirement much easier. Take a moment to imagine where you want to be in ten years. Are you relaxing on a beach? Exploring a lively city? Maybe you're embracing a peaceful, cozy lifestyle, or staying active and involved with a rich social life. Consider the budget you'll need to bring that vision to life, factoring in both the initial cost of your new home and ongoing expenses like utilities and insurance.

Focusing on a specific future goal will help keep you motivated and focused as you go through your belongings. It will also help you make decisions on what to keep and what to forgo. For example, if you're moving to a warmer climate, you can part with those bulky winter coats. If your new community handles lawn care, now will be the perfect time to sell your lawn mower and weed trimmer.

Declutter As You Go

Save yourself time down the road and reduce stress now by organizing and assessing your belongings as you pack. If the task seems overwhelming, remember you don’t have to do it all at once. Begin with one room at a time, breaking the process into manageable stages. Set small, achievable goals—like decluttering a closet or sorting through the garage. This will make the task feel less daunting and give you a sense of accomplishment as you complete each step along the way.

Parting with Belongings

Sorting your items and deciding what to bring with you — and what not to — can be tough, especially for sentimental items (even those that you no longer use). In her popular organizing guide, Marie Kondo suggests pausing to reflect before letting go of belongings. Take a moment to consider the role that item—a trinket, a piece of clothing—played in your life. According to Kondo, "By giving gratitude, you’re providing closure to the relationship with that object, making it easier to let go."

Having trouble saying goodbye to a shirt you haven’t worn in years? Take a moment to "thank" it for the comfort it once provided, or the joy you had wearing it. Then, bid it farewell, knowing it can benefit someone else. This simple ritual helps make the process of releasing possessions feel more meaningful and less overwhelming.

Sometimes It Takes A Village

You don’t have to downsize alone. Having a friend, family member, or loved one by your side can make the process easier and more enjoyable as well as keep you motivated.

Another smart downsizing practice for seniors is to use professional real estate agents and organizers who specialize in making the transition smoother. The National Association of Senior & Specialty Move Managers is a great resource for connecting with trusted services in your area.

If you’re looking for extra support, our team at The Roosevelt is happy to provide personalized recommendations based on the positive experiences of our residents.

Discover Your New Home

Welcome to a carefree, maintenance-free retirement at The Roosevelt! With a wide range of floor plans and layouts and exceptional, luxurious amenities throughout our community, you’ll find everything you need to enjoy your post-work years to the fullest. 

Our top-to-bottom, multi-million dollar renovation is currently underway, which will introduce our new Fitness Center, Creative Art Studio, all-new community lounges, Bistro, and much more! Contact us today to learn more and discover our vibrant and welcoming community in Elmhurst, IL.