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A Professional Downsizer Shares Her Keys for Success
Move-in Coordinator Jill Mannino spent more than a decade helping 500-plus older adults downsize and move to Springhill Senior Living in Erie , including her father and mother-in-law .
And , she ’ s the first to admit that downsizing decades ’ worth of belongings is a daunting task . But her experiences have shown her that at the end of the process , people feel liberated to be in a new place with more time to focus on the things they enjoy and take advantage of opportunities their new community brings .
Jill recently retired , but left her four top tips for downsizing behind . Bringing your family in before you start the process is key , she notes . People often think their children or grandchildren will want more than they actually do . Invite them for lunch and have them tag specific items , then give them a deadline to take them .
Ask the experts Even if you know you ’ re five years out from a move , it ’ s never too soon to start decluttering .
Consider hiring a professional senior relocation specialist early in the process to help you sort and create a plan . Paying for services will help you stay focused , and it is amazing what a professional can accomplish in a 4-hour session . Typically , Jill advises clients to sort into four categories : take , donate , trash , family .
Downsizers also provide invaluable expertise in the best ways to sell and the market value of belongings , which is often far less than people expect . This can be a big help when it comes to parting with items .
Stick to a deadline
Most senior living communities require you to move within 60 days of a signed contract . But whether it ’ s 60 days , six months , or longer , once you ’ ve scheduled that move date officially or in your mind , you ’ ll be more focused on doing what needs to be done .
Once you ’ re ready , start with smaller spaces like bathrooms and laundry rooms where you have less emotional attachment to items . If possible , invite the kids and grandkids to help . This can become a family bonding event as you share stories about certain mementos and belongings .
Keep memories , not clutter Move the things that are most familiar to you : a favorite chair , your comfortable couch , a desk where you write letters to loved ones . Instead of moving your grandmother ’ s entire collection of dolls or china , pick a few items and take photos of the rest . Have them made into a photo book , so you can enjoy them without the clutter . Focus on what you ’ re gaining
This is an exciting new chapter in your life . You ’ ll have fewer surfaces to dust , rooms to vacuum or towels to wash . No more mowing the lawn or shoveling snow or cleaning gutters . And those beloved items that you donated or passed on to friends and family are now bringing joy to someone else .
“ Once people move , the transformation is mind-blowing ,” says Jill . “ Most residents blossom in their new environment and often tell me it ’ s the best decision they ever made .”
Springhill is happy to connect you with trusted resources for decluttering , downsizing , or moving . Call today at 814.310.0285 or visit SpringhillErie . org .
The Reviews Are In !
“ The care Mom receives is beyond amazing . And she loves the �tness center and the group activities . She never misses an opportunity to go !”
- Colleen H .
“ I can ’ t say enough good things about OakView and how it has made the last seven years an enjoyable , safe and calming experience in my life .”
- Pat M .
OakView Personal Care at Springhill Dedicated to creating happy residents and happy families . With unique events , programs and opportunities for fun and wellness , OakView fosters independence and well-being .
Call ( 814 ) 310-0285 0285 to schedule your tour or visit us at SpringhillErie . org
2323 Edinboro Rd ., Erie , PA 16509
Asbury Springhill • 2323 Edinboro Road • Erie , PA 16509 • SpringhillErie . org
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