4 Unexpected Benefits of Downsizing for Seniors
For older adults considering moving to a senior living community, one of the most significant decisions is what to do with the belongings in their home. This is a great opportunity to think about downsizing – that way, when you move into your new residence, you will take only the essential items with you.
What are the benefits of downsizing? There are plenty!
- Fewer items to pack and move
- More space in your new residence
- Less to clean and maintain
- Lower costs
- More time for leisure activities and social events
At The Woodlands at Canterfield, we believe senior living should be full of opportunity, happiness, and joy. Our exceptional new community features warm, richly appointed private residences, a beautiful dining area, and opportunities for residents to form strong and lasting friendships with their peers.
Downsizing could be the best next step when you decide to move into a senior living community. It will allow you greater freedom while making a fresh start in a supportive new environment.
1. Downsizing Removes Unnecessary Items
Living in the same home over a long period of time can often cause us to accumulate items that we no longer need. In some cases, we acquire multiples of the same item. When you downsize your belongings, the first thing you can do is get rid of any duplicates and unnecessary items. After all, how many lamps do you really need?
Just by eliminating duplicate items and materials that you don’t use, you can remove a good percentage of your belongings and cut down on clutter at the same time.
As WebMD shares, “Getting rid of excess stuff can benefit your mental health by making you feel calmer, happier, and more in control. A tidier space can make for a more relaxed mind.”
2. Downsizing Gives You More Time
When you have fewer possessions, you also have more time to spend on the things you really love. On average, people spend approximately 6 hours every week cleaning their homes, with some spending over 7 hours cleaning! Instead of spending all that time cleaning, you can use your time to pursue your passions, learn a new skill, or spend quality moments with family and friends.
At The Woodlands at Canterfield, our community has been built to meet and exceed the expectations of our residents. We offer premier assisted living and memory support and care services for residents and families with a beautiful location, first-class amenities and service unlike anything else in Illinois.
When you have more time to do the things you love, you give yourself the freedom to enjoy more activities, meet new friends, and engage in meaningful and joyful experiences every day.
3. Downsizing Can Help Your Community
One of the great benefits of downsizing is that you can help people in your community. While you may be looking to pare down your belongings to only the essential items, you can also donate gently used items to your local shelter, secondhand store, library or hospital. These organizations are always looking for clothing and other items that can be given to families in need.
Whether you are donating smaller items like kitchenware, books, clothing, or art – or you want to donate larger items such as furniture or appliances – you will be doing your part to contribute to the greater good of the community. And in doing so, your belongings will bring joy to a new family.
4. Downsizing Can Enhance Your Lifestyle
For older adults who are planning to move into a senior living community, downsizing is one of the best steps you can take to ensure that your move into a new residence is successful. A new lifestyle requires a new mindset. The Woodlands at Canterfield rejoices in welcoming new residents to our beautiful and welcoming community!
While downsizing can seem like a daunting task, once you begin, you will see that it will provide you with more time, greater freedom, and the joy of doing good in your community.
To discover how The Woodlands at Canterfield offers the best in assisted living and memory care, we invite you to visit our website.
