Downsizing before a move can be both liberating and overwhelming. But for seniors who have acquired many possessions over the years, it can be an especially daunting task. Seniors planning a move into smaller living spaces should begin the downsizing process about 90 days before moving, says Greg Gunderson, owner and president of Gentle Transitions, a senior relocation services company located in Manhattan Beach, Calif.

"The most time-consuming part is the decision-making process," Gunderson says. But even after deciding what stays and what goes, Gunderson says one question remains:  "What's the best way to get rid of the items I don't want?" From donating a book collection to selling a grand piano, here are four ways to give possessions a new home.

• Hold an estate sale. Partner with an estate sales group that can facilitate the auction or sale of belongings at the home.
• Contact an auction house. Consider letting an auction house take over the sale of high-end valuables such as antique furniture, artwork or collectibles.
• Donate to a charity. Thinking about passing some possessions to those in need? Call the charity (for example Salvation Army, Goodwill) in advance to give them a list of the items that will be donated.
• Hire a paper-shredding service. Because financial, bank and private documents can contain confidential information, Gunderson says it's important to practice caution when removing them from the home.

Source: http://www.mysilverage.com/seniorhousingguide.