By Founder, Elizabeth Hirsh
I had the joy of returning to Aging Well Together on Episode 90: Downsizing & Decluttering, hosted by Heather and Alicia on WCOM 103.5 FM. This was my third time on the show, and what a privilege to share more about the work we do at The Downsizers and The Consignors. Each visit feels like a mix of sharing professional expertise and personal stories—as the hosts openly admit they face the same challenges as our clients!
Key Takeaways from the Episode
We highlighted several essential steps and mindsets for anyone preparing to downsize:
1. Start Early – If downsizing is even on your radar, don’t wait. Life circumstances and housing opportunities often speed up the timeline faster than expected.
2. Start Small (and Finish) – Avoid the “flittering effect” of hopping from room to room. Instead, pick a project you can complete in one sitting—like a linen closet or one drawer. The sense of completion builds momentum.
3. Plan From Your Destination Backward – Don’t think only in terms of square footage. Instead, focus on “real estate”: how many shelves, cabinets, or surfaces you’ll actually have in your new home. A 3,000 sq. ft. house with basement and garage often shrinks to 1,200 sq. ft. in senior living—that’s an 80% reduction.
4. Design for Your Current Lifestyle – Keep what supports who you are today, not who you used to be (or hope to be). If you no longer host Sunday dinners, do you really need serving platters? If your community offers a craft room, maybe it’s time to let go of bins of supplies.
5. Sustainability with Sanity – It’s natural to want to donate, but be realistic. Sometimes the most responsible choice is letting go of items that can’t truly be reused. Sustainability also means not “kicking the can” by sending broken or unusable items elsewhere.
6. Estate Liquidation Realities – For families handling belongings after a loved one’s passing, the task is complex and emotional. Executors face not only logistics and valuation but also the hidden treasures (or cash!) tucked away in unexpected places. Having trusted help matters.Why This Episode Resonates
Downsizing is about more than clearing space—it’s about preparing for the next chapter of life. By starting small, finishing projects, and planning with intention, the process becomes less overwhelming and more empowering.
Heather, Alicia, and I reminded listeners that they’re not alone. Downsizing is universal. The clutter, the guilt, the rabbit holes—we all face them. But with the right mindset and a few clear strategies, it’s possible to let go of what no longer serves us and create homes filled only with what supports our lives today.
