Throughout our lives, we acquire a lot of stuff. Between buying, receiving, inheriting, and saving, our homes fill up with things that we tell ourselves we need. However, more often than not, many of these items get packed away in a closet and forgotten about, leading to questions like, “When did we get this?”

Retirement living should focus on simplifying your life. Fortunately, there is a solution and a way for you to take back control over your home: downsizing.

There is often a misconception that downsizing equals downgrading, but that’s not the case. Downsizing is about simplifying what you own, not compromising your lifestyle. Franklin Park® Senior Living communities embody the experience that high-end resorts offer. Our luxury senior living services in Texas allow older adults to lead active, engaging retirement lifestyles, free from the stress and responsibilities of homeownership.

In addition, downsizing for retirement can present a set of benefits to your lifestyle and overall wellness. This process could even be an upgrade from your current living situation. Keep reading to learn more!

Less Clutter Means Less Stress & Less Cleaning

More and more people are opting for a minimalistic lifestyle; individuals are choosing to declutter their homes and lives to enjoy the things that matter most to them. While this could be an extreme change for some, you do not have to get rid of everything you own to enjoy the benefits that this mindset provides.

According to Very Well Mind, “a cluttered home, rather than a haven from stress, is a big stressor in itself and intensifies the frustration and exhaustion that an already-stressed person feels.” Your home should be your sanctuary. It should be the place you go to reset and refresh, not serve as a constant reminder of the cleaning that needs to be done.

By downsizing and decluttering your home, you are making room for the things that matter most in your life. As a result, you are able to be present and enjoy your space.

Downsizing Tips to Help You Get Started

Start Early

Waiting or procrastinating on the downsizing process can lead to added (and unnecessary) stress. Don’t try to sort through and pack your entire house in one day or weekend. This will only lead to stress, anxiety, and rash decisions. You could end up saving too much without really downsizing or getting rid of things that you never intended to in the fast-paced blur of packing.

By starting early, you give yourself the chance to take your time and dive into the downsizing process. You can mindfully sort through your belongings, decide what to keep and what to get rid of, and pack for your upcoming move.

Giving yourself plenty of time to sort through your home will help you feel less rushed, less overwhelmed, and less stressed.

Eliminate Rooms You Will Not Have in Your New Home

If you are moving into a luxury senior living community in Texas or just a smaller space, it’s likely you will not have the same number of rooms as you do in your current house. An easy way to downsize is to simply eliminate the rooms that you will not have in your new home.

For example, if you will no longer have an office or second bedroom, you will have to downsize these rooms significantly. In these situations, it’s important to really think through the downsizing process. People often choose to save items in storage with the mindset that they “may want/need them one day,” but more often than not, they never do. Instead, think through every item – if you have a second bed that will not fit in your new home, consider giving it to a family member, donating it, or selling it.

Downsize & Upgrade to Luxury Senior Living

Downsizing for retirement does not mean downgrading. In fact, when you move from a private residence into a luxury senior living community, you get access to exceptional amenities, community features, and care and support.

Our Franklin Park® Senior Living communities offer supportive care, convenient services, elegant architecture, and inviting atmospheres to create an ideal environment for individuals looking to get the most out of their senior living experience.

From chef-prepared meals, beautiful common areas, and engaging activities to all the comforts of home in modern apartment options, Franklin Park® residents have everything they need to lead active, engaging lifestyles.

Additional features include:

• Health and fitness centers
• On-site shopping
• Social, mental, and spiritual services
• Security features
• Community pool (may vary by location)
• And more!

Downsizing for retirement does not mean downgrading; it means simplifying your life so you can create your desired retirement lifestyle. To learn more about our luxury senior living communities throughout Texas, we invite you to visit our website or contact a member of our team today!