Downsizing can be an intimidating task—you’re faced with an entire house full of memories, furniture, and belongings that span generations. At LivWell Seniors, we work with families every day who are trying to make sense of what to do with “all the stuff” when it’s time for a loved one to move.

Too often, the conversation about downsizing begins only after a crisis—like a fall, hospitalization, or sudden health change. But it doesn’t have to be that way. With a little planning and a thoughtful approach, downsizing can become an empowering and manageable process.

We’re here to help you take the first step—and remind you that you don’t have to do it alone.

Why Starting the Conversation Matters

One of the biggest hurdles we see with families is simply starting the conversation. Downsizing brings up a lot of emotion. For aging parents, it can feel like letting go of independence. For adult children, it may feel uncomfortable to suggest a change.

But it’s so much easier to tackle downsizing when the conversation happens before there’s a health issue or urgent need to move. That’s when decisions can be made calmly, with care, and with input from everyone involved.

You don’t need to have all the answers right away. Just opening the door to the topic is a powerful first move. Ask questions like:

• “Is this the space you want to be in five years from now?”
• “If we ever needed to make a change quickly, how would you want that to look?”
• “Are there items in the house you already know you’d want to keep no matter what?”

These questions aren’t pushy—they’re thoughtful. They help bring the future into focus, and they let your loved one feel heard and involved.

The Five-Bucket Method: A Simpler Way to Downsize

Once you’re ready to start sorting through belongings, we recommend using what we call the Five-Bucket Method. It’s a system we walk families through all the time, and it’s designed to break an overwhelming process into manageable categories:

1. Keep

This is for the things your loved one can’t imagine parting with—family photos, treasured keepsakes, essential furniture, or that favorite reading chair. These are the items that bring comfort and continuity when moving into a new space.

2. Maybe

The “maybe” pile is a grace-filled space. It gives time to think, to revisit decisions, and to process feelings. If your loved one isn’t sure whether to keep an item, set it aside and come back to it. There’s no need to rush hard decisions.

3. Donate

Gently used items that still have life left in them can become someone else’s treasure. Encourage your loved one to donate to a cause that means something to them—whether it’s a women’s shelter, a church organization, or Habitat for Humanity. Knowing where the items are going can bring comfort and even joy.

4. Recycle

Some things just aren’t usable anymore, but that doesn’t mean they belong in a landfill. Old documents, electronics, and other materials may be recyclable through local programs. Check with your city or county about drop-off locations or scheduled collection events.

5. Dispose

This is the last resort bucket—for the things that can’t be kept, donated, or recycled. Think broken furniture, expired household cleaners, or hazardous materials like paint cans and motor oil. It’s important to handle these responsibly, so be sure to look into safe disposal sites near you.

This five-bucket approach keeps the process clear and flexible—and it gives everyone involved a way to move forward without having to do it all at once.

Move the Essentials First

Here’s a piece of advice that surprises many families: if your loved one is preparing for a move into senior living, move the essentials first—then move them.

What do we mean by that? Start by identifying and moving only the furniture, keepsakes, and daily essentials that will actually go with them into their new home. This creates a comfortable, personalized space right away.

Then, once the move is complete, you can return to the old home and go through the remaining belongings more calmly. The pressure is off, and you can take your time with the rest of the downsizing decisions.

You Don’t Have to Do This Alone

One of the best things families can do during the downsizing process is recognize when it’s time to ask for help. Whether it’s emotional exhaustion, time constraints, or just not knowing where to start, many people find relief in working with downsizing professionals.

At LivWell Seniors, we can connect you to trusted local professionals who specialize in helping older adults transition from their longtime homes into smaller, more manageable spaces or senior living communities.

These experts know how to:

• Work compassionately with aging adults who are reluctant to let go
• Organize and sort belongings efficiently
• Handle donation pickups and junk removal
• Coordinate with movers and realtors
• Reduce stress and avoid family tension

They bring structure, experience, and sensitivity to what can often be a very emotional time.

And the best part? LivWell’s referral service is completely free. We don’t charge families for helping them find the right support. Whether you’re in the early stages of planning or facing a time-sensitive situation, we’re here for you.

Focus on What Matters Most

Downsizing isn’t really about stuff—it’s about making room for the next chapter in life. When approached with care and planning, it can be a positive and even healing experience.

You’re not just clearing out closets; you’re preserving what’s most meaningful, creating a safer environment, and preparing for a smoother transition. Whether the move is right around the corner or still a few years away, starting the conversation now makes all the difference.

Need help getting started? We’re here for you.

? Call LivWell Seniors at 563-265-1577
? Visit us at www.livwellseniors.com

We’re available 24/7, including evenings and weekends, to answer questions, provide referrals, and connect you with downsizing professionals in your community.