Is it time to downsize?

Do you have positive or negative thoughts about the word downsize? I’m at the stage in my life when I’m actually looking forward to it. Not everyone feels positively about it though. You may be wondering whether it’s time to have the conversation about downsizing with your parents. Maybe the stairs have become to challenging to manage, or their house is just too big to keep up with. Maybe it’s time to think about planning for the long term.

While the decision to downsize is something many of us will have to face in our lifetime, it can be difficult, sad and confusing. Moving to a smaller, safer, more manageable environment can be a stressful transition. It can be hard to leave familiar surroundings and face the unknown of something new. Here are 8 ways to help you ease into that transition.

Talking to a Loved One About the Decision to Downsize

1. Feelings of attachment and fear of loss may run strong. Recognize and acknowledge these feelings. Allow a voicing of feelings, concerns, thoughts and questions. Hear everyone out, listen, acknowledge and empathize. Don’t placate with remarks about how great things will be.
2. Having calm and clear conversations can help avoid hurt feelings, anger, and resentment. This conversation will be emotionally charged. Keep calm and stay on the subject. Be very mindful of the words you use, some are much more emotionally charged than others.
3. Explain why you think it is the right time to downsize. These reasons might include medical reasons, safety, or financial security. Focus on why this will be a positive move.
4. Don’t make empty promises. Avoid saying the move is just temporary. Work together, as is possible, to explore different living options. Talk about what kind of place they’d like to live in and what amenities they’d like to have.
5. Do reassure them that you will remain an active part of their life at whatever level you are able. If you plan to visit, let them know. Talk about what holidays and important dates will be like.
6. Remember, deciding what belongings to part with and what to keep will be very emotional. Stay mindful of this and remain compassionate when working together to make these decisions. You may encourage your parents to consider this an opportunity to share things that matter to them with people who matter to them. Imagine the new life their treasures will have as they move to their new environment.

An Ongoing Conversation

This can be a hard conversation—allow your loved one time to absorb and digest these changes. It is unlikely that everything will be settled in one conversation, and really—something of this importance shouldn’t be. Consider it an ongoing dialog.

It’s better not to wait until you are forced to make quick decisions. Get the conversation started today.

At Extension of You, we’ve been where you are and understand what you need. We are here to help you with transitional care while you begin your search. We can also assist you and your loved one in the search for a new living space.

Our team of Certified Senior Specialists  are here to help you explore your choices. For more information on how we can help you and your loved one explore resources available to you, call us today at 919-629-2044.

Samantha K Herring

Communications Manager at Extension of You Home Care

Samantha is graduate of the East Carolina University (Go Pirates!) School of Communication. She enjoys working at Extension of You helping others, serving as a Girl Scout troop leader, and traveling.