Downsize, sell and prepare for your newest life stage

By Ryan Keller

Baby Boomers bear the title of the second-most populous generation in our world today, falling just behind first-place Millennials. Millions of Boomers will turn 65 each year through 2027, according to a report by CNBC, and many will move into senior living. With so many adults reaching retirement age each day, the need to educate adults on how to properly prepare for senior living is more important than ever.

There are many aspects that go into transitioning into senior living. A few are clear, like touring communities and finding the best one for you, deciding when to move, and determining which type of community you need to move to. Others are not as clear, like moving preparations and taking those first steps into senior living.

There are several considerations to have when planning for senior living, but three come with strong benefits. When the time to make the big move comes, prepare in advance by downsizing, making plans for your current home – such as selling – and allowing yourself the space to mentally and emotionally prepare for the significant life change.

Relocating to senior living calls for downsizing. In most cases, senior living apartments are smaller than older adults’ current living arrangements, whether it be a condo or a house. While living in a bigger space, we have more rooms to fill with decor, furniture and sentimental objects, which means more things to declutter when moving into a new, smaller home. Downsizing for senior living can seem like an overwhelming task, but with the right amount of help and a to-do list, the transition can be made smoother. First, straighten up your house from top to bottom to create a clean and clear environment to work in. Then, work room by room and sort your belongings into “keep,” “donate” and “sell” categories. For sentimental items that may be difficult to part ways with, consider passing them down to family or friends.

You should also request a floor plan and dimensions of your new living space so you’re aware of how much space you have and what you will be able to bring with you. Of course, don’t hesitate to ask for help from a friend or relative when decluttering or moving large objects into storage.

Seniors can choose to move to independent living for a variety of reasons. Some older adults experience the loss of a spouse, which can impact them both financially and emotionally. Others want a smaller space and a community-based environment, while some older adults need to sell their current home to finance their future home. Some want the security of knowing that if their care needs change, they have guaranteed access to assisted living, memory support or skilled nursing. When these reasons present themselves, sometimes the best option is to sell your home and move into senior living. Again, this isn’t a change that you need to take on alone. If liquidating your assets is the best choice for you, seek the help of a trusted real estate agent. There are dozens of Seniors Real Estate Specialists®, which are real estate agents certified in assisting older adults with real estate endeavors, throughout Lee, Collier and Charlotte counties. Visit SRES.Realtor to find the best fit for you.

Like any other major life change, making the decision to move from your long-term home into senior living can bring on some emotional challenges. It’s not an easy choice, and it takes a bit of time to adjust to. Make sure that you remind yourself of the opportunities to meet new people and experience a new way of living. Senior living is different from the rest of your adult life in many ways, like its continuous chances for socialization and creative activities. Remember, you aren’t on this new journey on your own. Your neighbors and fellow older adults have also made the transition and can provide comfort, companionship and advice for the transition. Most important, be patient with yourself and your emotions when navigating this new phase.

Regardless of when, where, or why you move, the steps you take to prepare yourself for this new phase of life are the most important. There are many routes you can take when embarking on the senior living journey, all with the same destination at the end of the road: security, comfort and happiness.

About the author

Ryan Keller is the regional vice president of senior living for Volunteers of America National Services (VOANS), the sponsoring organization of Gulf Coast Village.