April Fluevog owns Simply Estate Services, based in Ladner, BC. She and her team specialize in helping seniors and their families manage the overwhelming process of downsizing.
Many of us get anxious when we hear the word’ downsizing,’ but what do you think of when you hear it?
April: To me, downsizing means improving quality of life, moving on to your next chapter, and doing it in a way that makes you feel comfortable. People have so much stuff, they often get overwhelmed by it. Once people move on, though, they generally don’t miss it. It can be really freeing for people.
What can a senior do in advance to help make downsizing less stressful?
April: Start thinking about the items you want to bequeath to people. Generally, that’s what starts conflict. And if you’re going to bequeath items that you no longer use, do it sooner rather than later.
What insights would you offer to families as they begin the process of downsizing with a loved on?
April: I think that trying to do it all yourself creates conflict and also creates a lot of stress for everybody involved. Having a third party involved really alleviates a lot of that stress. We have a process, and our process makes it a lot more efficient and takes us a lot less time than what it takes people to do it on their own.
What should we do with our precious sentimental items?
April: Don’t try to take everything with you. When it comes to sentimental items, photograph it, have pictures of it, take it with you if you can put it in your suite. But to try to take the actual piece with you is not going to work. My advice is don’t get a storage locker. If you can’t take that item with you, chances are you’re not going to be visiting or using it. The value of the contents of the storage locker will often be exceeded by the storage fees within three to six months.
What guidance do you give to seniors transitioning to a senior living community?
April: Less is more. People expect they’re going to be living the same way they are in their home. When they come to somewhere like The Waterford they are spending a lot of time outside their suite. You’re spending time in spaces with other people, you’re socializing, there are so many things you don’t need in your suite because you’re not going to be spending time there.
What sets Simply Estate Services apart from other downsizing companies?
We go through everything. You’d be amazed how often things are lost or forgotten about or things have been hidden away. We save all jewelry and photos for the family and the person we’re helping. We also take care of the cleaning of the home and any maintenance that needs to be done so that the home can be ready for sale or rent. We recycle, we donate, and we try to leave as little in the landfill as possible.
Do you think there is an up-side to the downsizing process?
April: Usually, people’s biggest regret is that they didn’t do it sooner. People get very isolated in their homes, and once they transition, they often find themselves living a healthier, more active life.
Watch the Extended Cut of April’s downsizing interview for more input and advice on downsizing.
Comments