A new article on sleep by Cindy Page will be available on this blog 6/21.
Editor's note: The tips mentioned in this article appear here because the author (and this editor) feels the issues facing stroke survivors can be similar to those retiring and recognizing the need to downsize their living space in order to better manage their day-to-day lives.
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How to Downsize Your Home
A Guide for Stroke Survivors, Caregivers and Seniors
by Andrea Needham
Image via Unsplash
For many of us, moving becomes much more difficult as we age. In addition to the physical challenges of packing, unpacking, and hauling our belongings from one home to another, the mental and emotional obstacles of relocating may prevent us from moving in the first place. But despite these challenges, moving is oftentimes necessary as we age — especially for those of us who wish to downsize homes. This guide from Retreat & Refresh Stroke Camp a division of United Stroke Alliance will help to make the downsizing process as easy as possible!
Find the Right Type of HousingAfter making the decision to downsize, you’ll need to compare housing options to find the right home for your senior years.
Prepare to Sell Your Home
Finding a home to grow old in is just the beginning. If you own your current residence, you’ll also need to start preparing your home for sale.
● Look for an experienced real estate agent to help you throughout the process of selling your current home, and if necessary, buying a new property.
● Start preparing your home for selling, like making any necessary repairs and decluttering your furniture and other personal belongings.
● Donate unwanted items to soup kitchens, shelters, and other charitable organizations in your community.
Move Into Your New Home
Once you’ve received an offer on your current home and found a new place to live, you’ll need to start planning the move into your new house.
● Decide whether to hire professional movers or recruit a few family members on moving day.
● Protect your back when packing and moving to reduce your risk of injury.
● Look out for signs of relocation stress syndrome, which often includes changes in weight or eating habits, depression, anger, and anxiety.
● If you’ll need to modify your new home for accessibility purposes, you may be able to finance your renovations with a reverse mortgage, government loan or grant, or personal loan.
Downsizing may seem like a daunting task, but it’s important to focus on the benefits of moving into a smaller, more manageable home. In many cases, you’ll save on living expenses, reduce stress, and have a lot more time and energy to enjoy your favorite hobbies and activities. After all, your senior years are meant to be spent with the ones you love and the activities you enjoy most!
Retreat & Refresh Stroke Camp can help improve the quality of life of stroke survivors and their caregivers. Call (309)688-5450 to learn more.
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