A Fresh Start: Spring Cleaning and Downsizing with Confidence

Spring often feels like a fresh start. For many, it can also be a good time to clear out the clutter, get organized, and focus on what truly matters. At Hollenbeck Palms, we understand that downsizing is not just about sorting through belongings. It is about reflecting on a lifetime of memories while creating a more comfortable and manageable living space.

Whether you are planning a move, adjusting to a new living arrangement, or simply looking to simplify, downsizing can offer a sense of relief. It can lead to easier routines, safer surroundings, and more peace of mind. Of course, it also comes with challenges. That is why we’re sharing useful tips and personal experiences from people who have been through it themselves.

The Emotional Side of Letting Go

Troy Thompson, a designer and art consultant, helped his mother downsize from a four-bedroom house into two rooms at Hollenbeck Palms. He shared what many families experience during this kind of transition: the emotional weight of sorting through a lifetime of belongings.

“Everything has a story,” he says. “I remember this from childhood, everything has a story.”

“There’s things that I can’t throw away that, in all honesty, I think somebody else might think they’re trash, but to me they are so emotionally charged… that’s probably the most difficult aspect of this… not the physical. The hardest part is the emotional aspect of letting go.”

Troy explains how reframing the process helped him decorate his mother’s apartment: “I curated her life… this is the distillation of all the best things that she has done.” To make the most of her space, he created “small vignettes that will remind her of something or a certain place or a certain time.”

Start Simple: The Sorting Process

The key to downsizing is starting small and staying organized. Begin in unused areas of the home and use a simple color-coded system—for example green dots for items to keep, yellow for “maybe,” and red for donate or discard.

When it comes to sentimental items, it helps to take a break and come back later. Sorting in short bursts, a few hours at a time, keeps the momentum going without becoming overwhelming.

Closets, paperwork, and bookshelves are good targets. Try the “reverse hanger” trick in your closet: hang all clothing backward and only flip the hanger forward after wearing something. After a month or two, it becomes clear what pieces you actually wear and which ones you are ready to part with.

And do not forget your phone, it is a downsizing tool all on its own. Use it to photograph furniture setups, document donation items for tax purposes, or quickly share photos with family to see who wants what.

Create Space for Safety and Comfort

As we age, having more open space becomes a matter of safety, not just aesthetics. Avoid excess furniture, remove rugs that may become tripping hazards, and prioritize walkways that are clear and easy to navigate.

Troy explains that downsizing is not just about making things fit. It is also about creating a space that feels comfortable, works well, and reflects the person’s lifestyle. “I think more of a hotel room or a hospitality space or even a cruise ship room,” he says, “where things are cleverly placed, things are able to be put out of the way and pulled out when needed.”

Functionality comes first. A cozy reading chair, a well-lit desk, or a spot to enjoy meals can all be arranged in a way that feels personal and inviting, as long as they serve a clear purpose and make daily life easier.

Less Clutter, More Clarity

Spring cleaning and downsizing is not about getting rid of everything. It is about creating a space that reflects your needs and supports your well-being.

By letting go of duplicates, unused items, and pieces that no longer fit your space or lifestyle, you make room for calm, connection, and comfort. Fewer things often lead to greater peace of mind. And when moving to a new space, like our vibrant senior living community, that clarity can make the transition feel far less daunting.

At Hollenbeck Palms, we are here to help you start that next chapter—well supported, well prepared, and surrounded by the things and people that bring you joy.

We would love to hear from you. Give us a call at 323.307.4505 or, if you prefer, send an email to [email protected] to learn more about our move-in process or to schedule a visit.