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Dec 12, 2022

Moving into Assisted Living? Here’s How to Organize and Maximize the Space in Your Senior Apartment

As you plan your move into assisted living, you may wonder, “How will I ever fit everything I want to bring into a smaller space?” But with age comes wisdom — and the ability to improvise! When you experience the maintenance-free lifestyle that comes with assisted living, you may discover you don’t need as much space. You might even relish the idea of downsizing to a smaller, beautifully designed residence. 

Let’s explore a quick list of tips for downsizing so you’re ready to move into your assisted living apartment when the time is right.

Ask for Help

Downsizing is a big task, especially if you’re moving from a home you’ve lived in for many years. Enlist the help of family and friends to help you accomplish your goals, or consider hiring professional help for downsizing, organizing, and senior moving services. As you go through this process, you may realize that the things you own aren’t what bring you joy — it’s the experiences you have and the people you share them with.

Decide What to Keep

Senior couple selling belongings in a yard sale

Identify items to donate, sell, give to others, or toss. As you sort through your belongings, think about each item’s value and purpose. Keep items that are useful and improve your quality of life, and give yourself permission to let go of the rest. As you go through this process, avoid creating a “maybe” pile, because this can delay decisions and stretch out the time you spend sorting through items. 

Choose Smart Storage Solutions

Choosing the right storage solutions can free up space and help you stay organized. There are lots of opportunities to tuck things away when you choose furniture with built-in storage, such as storage ottomans, lift-top coffee tables and benches. Maximize storage with under-bed bins to keep extra linens or shoes. Utilize over-the-door storage racks and organizers in the kitchen, bedroom and bathroom. 

Use Wall Space Wisely

Senior couple hanging photo in their home

If you’ve maxed out your floor space, it’s time to aim higher! Use the vertical space in your apartment to expand your options. A wall-mounted shelf near your entryway can be a great spot to keep a basket for mail or keys. Floating shelves also provide a perfect solution for displaying treasured items without taking up space on tabletops or countertops.

Optimize with Interior Design Tools

Check out interior design tools available online to create a 2D sketch of your new apartment. These tools can help you visualize the space and plan how to maximize square footage. Review floor plans and take measurements to help you assess storage space and plan the best arrangement for furniture.

Assisted Living at The Ridge

A worry-free lifestyle awaits you at The Ridge. There’s less to worry about since you don’t have to lift a finger when it comes to yardwork, snow shoveling and home repairs. And you’ll spend less time meal planning, cooking, and cleaning when you have meals provided and housekeeping services available. Our assisted living communities in Salt Lake and Denver feature thoughtfully designed floor plans with all the perks to make life easier. We invite you to come see what’s possible and check out the assisted living floor plans available at The Ridge Foothill, The Ridge Cottonwood, and The Ridge Pinehurst.