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Downsizing the detritus of life is not an overnight event, so give yourself plenty of time.
Whether you’re moving into a smaller space, moving in with a significant other, or simply want to pare down as you look for a new place, downsizing your home is not always an easy proposition. Rather than tackling the task blindly, it’s important to make a plan and execute it with intention. Use the following expert tips to learn how to downsize your belongings and declutter your home this summer.
The CRTS certification has been a mainstay credential in the industry for a decade. Now the program of training service providers is being enhanced with new services for providers and the seniors they help. Providers will now have access to a value-added website that will make some parts of their work easier. Service summaries, planning tools and business management tools can be accessed through the main site. Additionally, seniors will have the ability to locate a service provider in their areas.
CRTS providers have earned a national certification that prepares them to better help seniors transition to smaller and/or more appropriate homes. In order to become certified, candidates must meet eligibility requirements and pass a standardized certification examination. CRTS providers come from many walks of life. They may be experienced as estate sales professionals, professional organizers, healthcare providers, real estate professionals, medical professionals or caregivers.
Two powerful forces are converging to shape the future of aging: technology and rising expectations.
In their youth and middle age, the coming generation of older adults have enjoyed the most dramatic quality-of-life improvement in history. Now, they expect that to continue in old age — new and innovative ways to live a better life.
At the same time, technology continues to advance at an extraordinary rate. Smaller, cheaper, faster, smarter and increasingly connected technologies are enabling people of all ages and capabilities to live easier, more engaged and empowered lives.
There are many reasons why homeowners make the decision to downsize to a smaller house – from too many unused rooms to preparing financially for retirement. Whatever the circumstance, downsizing has many perks.
Lifestyle changes often spark the decision to move. If your children have moved out and you no longer need the large backyard space or the extra bedrooms, the upkeep alone could inspire you to downsize. Or, if you’re planning for retirement, a smaller, less pricey property may work better for your new lifestyle.
Almost 90% of people aged more than 65 years want to stay in their home for as long as possible, and 80% believe their current residence is where they will always live, according to the AARP. Aging in place has its benefits; those who stay in their homes can be more comfortable in familiar surroundings, not to mention saving expenses they might incur in another setting. A main concern for caregivers and families of those aging in place, however, is their personal safety. What happens in case of an emergency, or if they fall?
The concern is reasonable. One way to address it? Through emergency response services and proactive wellness solutions, which can give families and caregivers peace of mind by helping older adults manage their chronic conditions where they live.
Why Downsize?
There are multiple reasons why downsizing is a good option for families. One reason is to help aid in a financial situation. High mortgages, and utilities may be enough reason for a family to move into a smaller home.
We’re debating whether to move in retirement or remodel our existing home. In either case, we’re trying to figure out what features, at a minimum, we should look for in a new house—or add to our current house—so that we can stay in our home as we get older. Does the housing industry have any guidelines or requirements for retirees?
“Aging in place” is a hot topic. Three resources can help a great deal.
Each year, Dr. Jack Miller of Central Connecticut State University riles up a nation of normally docile bookworms with his survey of America’s Most Literate Cities. The gold standard of rankings with a “which major city is the most down with printed matter?” theme, the CCSU rankings, which considers a number of criteria including newspaper circulation, number of local booksellers, library resources and education levels, are taken seriously by the cities that regularly appear on the list.
According to a new study published in the BMJ, medical errors now rank as the third leading cause of death in the U.S., with only heart disease and cancer accounting for more deaths. While I do believe the latest study overestimates deaths related to errors, it’s clear that these mistakes – ranging from patients being given the wrong medication or dose to missed diagnoses – profoundly impact patient outcomes and mortality rates.
These errors occur for reasons ranging from poor clinical judgment to inadequate communication between health providers. Besides putting patients in harm’s way, these mishaps contribute to rising health care costs.
You're nearing retirement, your children have left the nest, and you're tired of maintaining your big yard. Suddenly, the idea of downsizing makes a lot of sense.
But such a life-changing move inevitably creates stress. You face tough choices as you go from having more space to living with less. Do you sell a piece of furniture that is a family heirloom because it won't fit in a smaller home? Will a smaller home still have the extra bedroom or large dining room you'll want when your kids and grandchildren visit? How will you spend or invest proceeds from the sale of your home?