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Top 4 Ways to Help Seniors Declutter
Lisa Reisman • Aug 28, 2019
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Top 4 Ways to Help Seniors Declutter
Clutter is a massive problem among all walks of life, but it can especially affect the elderly. Whether it’s helping a parent downsize, scheduling a large-scale decluttering effort, or simply throwing a few things in the trashcan during a brief visit, the positive effects of removing clutter are far reaching. Not only will you be reducing material which is potentially dangerous to a loved one, you will be helping them simplify their existence and live in a much less confusing manner.
When you were a child, you might have heard “go pick up your room” coming from the mouth of your parent quite often. Today, the tables have turned. Now, you’re the adult child — probably a parent yourself — who has been providing care for an aging parent for some time. Just remember, it is perfectly acceptable to tell your parent to clean their room. But if they need help in doing so, it’s always a good idea to reach out and lend a hand.
The difference between clutter and messiness might be hard to determine; but a small uptake in mail and bills piling up, expired food in the refrigerator and drawers and closets unable to shut could be cause for concern. Pay attention if walkways become obstructed and it becomes increasingly difficult to walk throughout the house. Clutter can begin to complicate a senior’s ability to socialize and produce feelings of loneliness and isolation. It needs to be addressed, quickly.
Keep in mind, there is a difference between having clutter and hoarding. In fact, most hoarders have an obsessive compulsive disorder, making it nearly impossible to let go of anything. If this is the case with your loved one, please seek someone trained before interceding. However, if your loved one is simply a collector or clutterer, try to reach out and explain the reason why getting rid of things will make life easier. It will take some encouragement and support, but it can only help them in the end.
Here are our top four ways to help an aging parent declutter.
1. Explain the Value:
Once a loved one understands how much money could be tied up with the estate or home, they may be willing to part with those belonging for the cash. Explain how the money can be used for quality time with loved ones, paying towards everyday expenses, or just some extra money to spend.
2. One Day at Time:
If it took years to pile up, it won’t take just a few hours to clean up. Remember to take your time with any decluttering efforts and set small, reasonable goals. Try focusing on one room or a section of a room at a time. Small progress can make a big difference in the long run.
3. Outsource It:
Not everyone has the time or mindset to declutter and reorganize a loved one’s living space. Just remember there are entire organizations
whose whole business focuses on providing these services. Using a third party could save you in time, money and headaches.
4. Let the Family Help:
Most likely, family members will be those taking the most interest in where a loved one’s heirlooms or belongings end up after decluttering. Reach out early and encourage every family member to be involved so they feel included. That way, there are no discrepancies or arguments later when the situation has changed.
Remember for many of our aging parents, their home and belongings are strong reminders and memories of their past. Decluttering can be hard but in the end it will help make their lives safer, more streamlined and less stressful.
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