Is it time to talk to a loved one about giving up the keys? This episode of The Downsizing Roadmap Podcast explores one of the hardest transitions families face: deciding when it’s time for a senior to stop driving.

Our guest, Mark Healy of Senior Care Authority in the Dayton/Cincinnati area, shares expert advice from the Beyond Driving with Dignity program—a nationally recognized resource designed to help families evaluate senior driving ability with compassion, dignity, and objectivity.

Whether you’re concerned about a parent’s safety behind the wheel or preparing for a future conversation, this episode offers practical guidance, emotional insight, and helpful resources for navigating this tough but necessary topic.

🔑 In This Episode:

• The emotional and practical challenges of senior driving
• How to know when it’s time for a senior to stop driving
• Signs of declining driving ability and red flags to watch for
• How to talk to a loved one about driving without damaging your relationship
• What to do after the decision is made—support systems and transportation alternatives
• What the Beyond Driving with Dignity self-assessment includes
• How families can work with professionals to reduce conflict and guilt

💡 Key Takeaways:

• Loss of driving can feel like a loss of freedom—acknowledge the emotion
• Objective support from trained professionals helps reduce family tension
• Planning ahead can make the transition smoother and less traumatic
• There are safe, respectful ways to approach this sensitive issue

📚 Resources Mentioned:

• Beyond Driving with Dignity – Cincinnati, OH
• Senior Care Authority Cincinnati
• DownsizingRoadmap.com – for podcast episodes, events, and workshops

🎧 Listen, Subscribe & Share

If you found this episode helpful, don’t forget to follow The Downsizing Roadmap Podcast, leave a review, and share it with someone who may be going through this transition with a parent or loved one.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a new one. Have questions, topic suggestions, or need help with your own downsizing journey? We’d love to hear from you!

📧 Email us: heather@theroskogroup.com
📱 Follow us on social:
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🌐 Learn more: www.downsizingroadmap.com

Let’s simplify, declutter, and create space for your next chapter—together!

Downsizing to 1200 Sq Ft – A Room-by-Room Guide

Are you trying to fit your life into a smaller space—but not sure where to begin?

In this episode, Jodi and Heather break down the process of downsizing to a 1200 square foot home, one room at a time. From kitchen cabinets to closet space, they’ll walk you through the essentials you actually need—and what you can confidently let go of.

We’ll talk about how to:

• Determine what truly serves your lifestyle
• Create a functional and beautiful living space without the clutter
• Use space-saving solutions and furniture to maximize comfort
• Deal with sentimental items and hobbies that take up space
• And build a capsule wardrobe that works in any sized closet

Whether you’re moving, simplifying, or helping someone else transition, this episode offers practical tips and permission to let go of “stuff” and focus on what matters most.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a new one. Have questions, topic suggestions, or need help with your own downsizing journey? We’d love to hear from you!

📧 Email us: heather@theroskogroup.com
📱 Follow us on social:
Facebook
YouTube
🌐 Learn more: www.downsizingroadmap.com

Let’s simplify, declutter, and create space for your next chapter—together!

Helping Your Parents Downsize – A Practical Guide for Adult Children

Are you facing the task of helping your aging parents downsize—but unsure where to start? Whether they’re moving to senior living, relocating to a smaller home, or simply ready to declutter, this episode walks you through the emotional and practical side of the process.

It’s not just about boxes and logistics—it’s about relationships, timing, and knowing how to support your loved ones through a major life transition with care and clarity.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• When to recognize it might be time for your parents to downsize
• How to start the conversation without causing conflict
• What tasks to focus on first (hint: it’s not sorting stuff!)
• How to prioritize safety, simplicity, and emotional well-being
• The best way to break the process into manageable phases
• How to support a parent when one is less willing than the other
• Tips for long-distance caregivers trying to help from afar

Key Questions We Answer:

• How do I talk to my parents about downsizing without upsetting them?
• What if they aren’t ready—but I know the time is coming soon?
• How do I deal with my parents’ sentimental attachment to things?
• What if my siblings aren’t on the same page about the move?
• Should we bring in professional help—and when?

Why You Should Listen:

• Gain a roadmap for supporting your parents through a difficult but important transition
• Learn how to make progress without damaging relationships
• Discover tools and scripts that can help you get unstuck and move forward
• Feel more confident navigating the emotional side of letting go

Whether you're actively helping your parents move or just trying to plan ahead, this episode is full of guidance, compassion, and clarity to help you take the next right step—without burning out or losing your mind.

🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform or at www.downsizingroadmap.com

#HelpingParentsDownsize #SeniorMoves #FamilyConversations #DeclutteringHelp #CaregiverSupport #AgingParents #DownsizingJourney #SeniorLivingTransition #EmotionalDecluttering #MovingMomAndDad #DownsizingRoadmap

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a new one. Have questions, topic suggestions, or need help with your own downsizing journey? We’d love to hear from you!

📧 Email us: heather@theroskogroup.com
📱 Follow us on social:
Facebook
YouTube
🌐 Learn more: www.downsizingroadmap.com

Let’s simplify, declutter, and create space for your next chapter—together!