Choosing to transition into a senior assisted living facility is a significant decision. Maybe you or a family member are ready to embrace a simpler lifestyle, surrounded by both personal and professional support networks. Or perhaps living independently has become too much of a challenge. Whatever the reasons, moving into a senior living community can bring comfort and peace of mind to you and your loved ones.

Part of such a move may involve downsizing. Rooms are typically smaller and pre-furnished in senior communities. This prospect could raise questions for you or your family. What if all the beloved belongings don’t fit into the new residence? Letting them go might seem unthinkable.

This is a moment in life when self-storage can help. It gives you the freedom to keep what you love, access items at your convenience, and ensures your prized possessions are safe and secure. Feel this option may be for you but not sure where to start? The storage unit experts at Hollywood Storage Center of Thousand Oaks are here to guide you! Over the years, they’ve worked closely with many retirees and families embarking on this journey.

To get you started, the storage team compiled a list of their most valuable advice to consider when in this situation. What pearls of wisdom do our seasoned consultants have to share? Let’s find out!

Take Stock of What You Have

Begin by taking a good, hard look at everything you own. Ask yourself or your loved one, “what items do you want to save and why? Are there things you can part with?” This first step is crucial in determining what needs to be stored and what can be let go. Just as you would prepare for any move, this is a great time to sell or give away items that are no longer wanted.

Tour the Storage Facility

Scheduling an in-person walk-through can be very reassuring. It’s important to feel that the facility you’ve chosen is well-maintained, clean, and secure. Taking a tour also gives you an opportunity to ask questions you may not have thought of before visiting.

Think About Accessibility

When selecting a storage unit, consider how often you’ll need to access your stored items. If you’re working with, or are a senior who has limited mobility, it’s most convenient to have a short distance between the car and their storage unit. Ask your storage consultant to show you the exact location of your unit on the facility property. Choose a drive-up or ground-floor unit if available and within your budget.

Consider Climate-Controlled Units

Personal belongings often hold sentimental value that goes beyond their monetary worth. For items that are particularly sensitive to changes in temperature or humidity – such as antiques, art, or family heirlooms – consider renting a climate-controlled storage unit. This will ensure these precious items are kept in optimal condition.

Plan for Long-Term Storage

Make sure to properly pack, label, and organize your belongings for easy retrieval and to prevent damage over time. If you anticipate items to be in storage for a long period of time and opt not to rent a climate-controlled unit, consider wrapping wood furniture and upholstered items for added protection.

Create a Photo Album

Items kept at Hollywood Storage Center can be accessed 365 days a year, but sometimes just seeing a picture will do. Photograph the items you love and need to store, then flip through the memory book whenever you wish.

Organize Belongings

There are certain items that you may want or need to access from time to time. It’s a great idea to identify these and place them in clearly labeled boxes. When you fill the storage unit, place these in last so they can be readily retrieved.

Ask for Help

The friendly consultants at Hollywood Storage Center are here to make things easier. For example, if you need an extra pair of hands to carry large appliances or boxes, they can recommend trusted local movers. They can also offer useful tips on how to pack your unit more efficiently. Just stop by our main office or give us a call with any questions.

 

We hope you’re feeling a bit more at ease about senior living. Downsizing doesn’t mean downgrading! It’s about making space for a new chapter.

At Hollywood Storage Center, we want to do everything possible to make the process smooth on the storage end. That’s why we provide you with your first month’s rent free. For those moving locally (from Calabasas to Camarillo) we also offer the complimentary use of our moving truck with a driver. On move-in day, stop by the main office for a bag of freshly popped popcorn and a water bottle.  With all these amenities and more, we strive to make your storage experience as convenient and pleasant as possible.

Wishing you a seamless relocation and safekeeping!