Tips for Helping Your Parents Downsize

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Whether your parents were receptive to the idea of downsizing or were initially extremely hesitant, they’ve decided to go ahead with it. It’s easy to think the hard part is over.

You’re still going to need a lot of understanding and patience as you help your parents maneuver through the downsizing process. Downsizing brings up a lot of expected and unexpected emotions, and for your parents, relying on you for help may not be something they are used to or feel comfortable with. All of these things can cause people to react in different ways. 

It can be very tempting to try to power through and get everything done as quickly as possible, but try to resist. Here are some tips for helping parents with their downsize in a sensitive and supportive way.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

You might think that it’s your job to help your parents downsize, and you need to carry all the weight on your shoulders, but you don’t have to. Asking for help when helping your parents is the right move for many families. If you do need help, there are services for downsizing and moving that can offer a compassionate hand to help everyone navigate the process.

Avoid Getting Overwhelmed

Your parents have likely built up their lives and possessions over 40, 50, or 60 years. Decluttering and downsizing their possessions is not going to be something that can be easily accomplished in one weekend. Add to that the emotional attachment you and your parents will have to many of the items in their home. If you try to tackle decluttering it all at once, you’re bound to get overwhelmed and exhausted. 

Instead, start early and start small. Carve out manageable chunks of time over several months or weeks and take it room by room. Try starting with rooms and spaces that don’t hold items of significant emotional value, like storage and linen closets. Starting with these areas will ease your parents into the process, so it will be easier once you get to areas and items that hold more sentimental value.

Change Your Mindset

Getting rid of the belongings that your parents spent a lifetime collecting will always be a complex process, but you can put a more positive mindset on it for yourself and your parents by keeping in mind that many of these items can be donated. As they get rid of their cherished belongings, knowing that they can go on to have a second life with their new owners can be extremely comforting.

While downsizing will always have its challenges, some approaches can make the process much easier to handle. Use these tips to help make downsizing as smooth and comfortable as possible for you and your parents.