Thursday, January 19, 2012

Downsizing Tips for Columbia Seniors




It has been my experiences that when something goes into a box and then into some sort of storage, it is usually the last time that anyone originally connected with the item will ever see it again.  The person putting the item into the box should stop, take one last look, have a moment of silence, and maybe even hold a small memorial service for the item.

If you think about it logically, it sort of makes sense.  The object is going into the box because it is no longer needed, used or wanted. If the item is right in front of us and we cannot bother to pick it up, use it or get some enjoyment out of looking at it, what are the chances of someone crawling into a dark closet or under a bed with dust bunnies or, God forbid, going into a locked public storage area to open the box and to set the item free?

In the United States there are currently 2.35 billion square feet of storage space in the form of public storage facilities.  Do you ever wonder what people could possibly be storing in all of that space?  I am sure one day a socio-cultural anthropology student will have a field day with our nation’s need to store our over-accumulation of stuff.

If you do not want to be a victim held captive by having too much stuff, the tips below should help you get started on your road to freedom.


Tip 1. Rely on experts to help you sort the diamonds from the rough.        
There are services now that will help you with your downsizing dilemma. http://www.movingseniorsinsc.com is one such service.  Moving and down sizing is an overwhelming and emotional event; bring in a third-party professional who can look objectively at the situation.

Tip 2. Donate,donate, donate.
Most people have closets full of clothes that they have not worn in years.  Donating clothes is probably one of the easiest ways to produce instant results in your home.  There are people in need who could be putting your clothes to good use.  You will create a win-win with your donation by helping your fellow man and by reclaiming your closet space for the clothes you do wear.  Goodwill is an organization that will take clothing donations.  http://www.goodwillsc.org/

Tip 3. Consign.
Consigning household items and furniture is a great way to downsize.  Find a good consignment store, such as Agape Again in West Columbia.   You can make some money on the sale of your items or donate them outright.  Either way you will be contributing to a good cause that supports senior care in the Midlands. See Joe Pinner commercial for store.

Tip 4. Find out what the kids actually want and tag it.
Invite your children to tell you what, if anything, from your household they will want and then tag those items with their names to avoid conflict after you are gone.

Tip 5. Relax andenjoy life.
There is a certain freedom and peace of mind that comes from having fewer material things, especially as we age.  I have had many residents that downsized in to one of our Agape Senior patio homes who have told me what a relief it was to get rid of 50 years worth of accumulation. It is just less to worry about.

Agapé Senior’s mission is to provide integrated health services to meet the needs of senior adults in a faith-based atmosphere. The company’s philosophy is based upon its commitment to provide the best quality care possible for members of our senior adult community. We are committed to participating actively in and around the communities we serve.Call us at 800-411- 2427. Columbia, Forest Acres, Lexington, Irmo, Rock Hill, Laurens, Conway, Garden City, West Columbia

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