The Upside of Downsizing for Seniors

The Upside of Downsizing for Seniors

Moving from a sizable family home into a comfortable retirement community apartment can feel daunting to many seniors, but Sunshine Retirement Living strives to make that transition as smooth and stress-free as possible.

“We begin the process by reviewing the available apartments or floor plans within the community to help the new resident choose the most appropriate living space for his or her needs and budget,” says Teresa Othmer, Sunshine’s Interior Designer.

Floor Plans, Measurements, and More

After selecting a floor plan, it’s helpful to measure the rooms and note where windows, cabinets, electrical outlets, and cable boxes are located—these features, of course, can’t be moved. Having precise measurements in hand lets residents visualize how their furniture and personal items will fit in the new space.

Space-Saving Ideas

Before officially moving, Sunshine Retirement Living can offer suggestions on how to maximize space by staying flexible. For example, replacing a large sofa with a love seat can provide comfort without overwhelming the room, and ottomans can double or even triple as coffee tables, footrests, and discreet storage. Simple drop-leaf tables can come in handy for puzzles or craft projects with the grandkids, while decorative baskets help consolidate books, magazines, and knitting supplies.

Expressing Your Personal Style

“We like to provide as much freedom as possible for residents to express themselves,” says Othmer. “That includes everything from adding a wall mount for a flat-screen TV to bringing in paintings, pottery, plants and photos, as well as throw pillows and blankets that can be changed seasonally for splashes of color and warmth.”

Kitchenettes, bathrooms, bedrooms, and living areas come equipped with necessary built-in fixtures and overhead lighting. Residents are welcome to bring essential small appliances, such as coffee makers and toasters, along with any lamps needed for reading or other specialized tasks.

Patios and balconies give residents extra space to personalize and enjoy. Adding a couple of chairs or lounges fosters a place to relax outdoors. Potted perennials or cheerful annuals can introduce lively bursts of color without occupying too much room.

“If family members are unavailable to help with personal touches, like hanging pictures, residents can ask the community staff members and maintenance crews to accommodate their special requests,” says Othmer. “We want to do whatever we can to make downsizing an uplifting experience, and make each resident’s apartment is as unique as they are.”

Looking for more information on simplifying your move or taking a look at one of our communities? We’d be happy to help. Click here to get in touch with one of our staff members today. Let us show you how downsizing can feel like a major upgrade in comfort and style.