Moving your loved one into an assisted living facility can be an emotional and stressful time. The enormous task of packing up their home and downsizing their possessions for the smaller space can make it more difficult. But before you become overwhelmed, keep in mind that there are steps to take to help you stay organized, efficient, and calm. Consult the guide below so that you’ll be ready to go when the movers arrive. 

How to Help Your Loved One Downsize Before Moving to Assisted Living

1. Enlist the Help of the Whole Family

During times like this, it’s important to remember that your family is your support system. Recruit family members to come over and help pack or drive donated items to drop-off points. Breaking up the work over several weeks or months will make it easier to plan around your schedules.

2. Plan for the Size of the New Place 

Take a look at the new space if possible, so you have an idea of how much floor and storage space you are working with. You will want to make your loved one feel comfortable in an atmosphere of familiar items. Sadly, many of their items will not fit. As you go through the large items and furniture pieces, use colored stickers to denote which items are going to the new space, what is going into storage, and what can be donated. This will make it easier when the movers arrive. Talk to your loved one about what items are most important to them, such as photo albums or family heirlooms. 

3. Take It Room by Room

The sheer size of the task can sometimes be the most daunting part. After all, you are not just packing up and sorting your loved one’s home. You’re going through their whole life and memories. Instead of tackling it all at once, go through each room one at a time. Start well in advance of the moving day. Rushing at the last minute can lead to valuable items being lost and extra stress for everyone involved. 

Becker Movers in Rochester, NY, offers a wide array of moving services, from commercial and office moving to residential or international moving. Their qualified and professional movers work efficiently to guarantee the safety of your items. They also have the packing supplies you need to transport your items safely. For more information, call (585) 458-5480 or visit them online today.