The Do’s and Don’ts of Downsizing to a Retirement Community

Posted: March 1, 2022

For many older adults, making the most of their retirement includes downsizing their living space. A desire for maintenance-free living, having more time to travel, and the ability to live an active lifestyle leads many seniors to make the move to a retirement community. Before making the move, learn the dos and don’ts of downsizing for you can enjoy your retirement.

Mentally Preparing to Move and Downsize

The thought of sorting through and packing up a lifetime full of memories can be intimidating.  Making decisions about what to keep, discard, or donate is hard, even when you want to downsize. Start by preparing yourself mentally and emotionally. Keep in mind why you are doing this. Think of your new living space, how you will decorate it with only things you love. Imagine yourself being a part of your new community and the freedom you will feel after the project is done.  Learn what it’s like to live in a retirement community.

The Do’s of Downsizing

• Have a plan and a timeline. Once you have a move-in date for your new retirement home, decide when you need to have your current home cleared out.
• Have an idea of the size of your new space and the floor plan so you’ll know how much you can bring.
• Declutter and organize before deciding on what you’ll take with you to your new home.
• Deal with the easy things first, sentimental items last.
• Ask for help from friends or family.

The Don’ts of Downsizing 

• Don’t try to tackle too much in one day. Allow for breaks for your mind and body.
• Also, don’t wait too long to start – you don’t want to feel rushed.
• Don’t let fear of the future stop you from letting go of things.
• Don’t assume family will want what you don’t.
• Don’t forget your ‘why’: to live your best retirement life.

 Bella Vita’s Active Adult Retirement Community

Bella Vita is an inclusive, affordable luxury adult community in Aurora, Colorado. Conveniently located off Havana Street, you are steps away from everything you need. Havana Street shopping district is right next door and offers groceries, shopping, banking, restaurants, and medical professionals.

We offer residents comfortable senior living amenities to help make life easier and plenty of activities like cinema and game nights, happy hours in the bistro, and monthly outings with free transportation. Learn what residents have to say about living the Bella Vita life.

If you are considering downsizing and making the move to a retirement community, we invite you to contact us for more information or to schedule a live, virtual tour.