EP 007 | Working with Seniors and Downsizing Clients with Karen Shinn and Gail Shields

May 2, 2017

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Looking for a rewarding design niche that makes a meaningful difference in people’s lives?

In this episode, Kimberley Seldon speaks with Karen Shinn and Gail Shields of Downsizing Diva about the unique challenges and opportunities involved in working with seniors and downsizing clients. From organizing and estate clearing to preparing homes for sale and managing life transitions, this specialized field requires a blend of design expertise, empathy, and communication skills.

For interior designers interested in serving an aging population or expanding their service offerings, this episode provides valuable insights into a growing and meaningful area of practice.

In this episode, we learn:
• What downsizing is and the life circumstances that often trigger it
• Why many people experience a sense of freedom and relief through downsizing
• How language and communication styles can impact different age groups
• The most important considerations when designing for clients over the age of 70
• Practical tips for working effectively and compassionately with seniors
• How specialized services can create a valuable niche within the design industry

 

Take Aways

Design Tips for working with seniors

  1. Use high contrast colors, especially at transitions such as stairways and thresholds.
  2. Light every area well. This works for everyone!
  3. Avoid shiny surfaces for floors, which lead the elderly to think there is water spilt or a slick surface.
  4. Choose colors only after the client sees them, as older eyes see color differently sometimes.

The Diva’s book, GO! The Essential Guide to Organizing and Moving

To learn more about specializing in senior design and downsizing: NASMM (National Association of Senior Move Managers).

Karen Shinn and Gail Sheilds are co-founders of Downsizing Diva, the FIRST Canadian company to be accredited NASMM A+ by the National Association of Senior Move Managers. They are Certified Senior Move Managers, Certified Professional Consultants on Aging (CPCA), Gold Leaf Member of Professional Organizers in Canada (POC) and Alzheimer Society Trained.

The pair are also international speakers and co-producers of The Toronto Caregiver Show—Ontario Science Centre, June 9, 2017.

When it comes to downsizing and moving, these Divas have been there and done that!

Downsizing Diva can coordinate a move from start-to-finish, get a house ready to be staged, clear estates or drop in for a WOW session and Work on Whatever it takes to begin downsizing and organizing.

When you are ready to go from overwhelmed to overjoyed, you’re ready for Downsizing Diva.

[email protected]
www.downsizingdiva.com

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Legal Disclosure | This podcast is for educational purposes only and provides general business advice for interior designers and design professionals. It is not intended as individual legal, accounting, or professional guidance. Kimberley Seldon and Business of Design® make no guarantees regarding accuracy and are not liable for how information is used. Strategies shared may not apply to every situation—listeners should seek qualified legal, financial, or professional advice before making business decisions. References and resources mentioned may change over time.

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