Tips to Help Your Parents Reduce Their Clutter
A nice long life means you naturally accumulate clutter. As parents age, we begin to notice more and more clutter building up in their homes. We don’t want to take away items of value to them, but we do want them to be able to manage their homes happily and healthfully. This means a relatively clutter-free environment.So what are the best steps to take to help with this? Here are some ways to help your parents effectively reduce their clutter.
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Start Small
Decluttering can be a big job! Start with small steps. This goes for small rooms, small jobs, and small messes. Our advice is to pick a bathroom or a closet. Start there by getting rid of some old curlers that don’t work, or some other item that no one is using. If that space is too overwhelming, go even smaller. Start with a drawer. Organize and declutter one drawer and you’re on your way!
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Be Organized and Come Prepared
You know what you will need to help your parents declutter. So come with the right supplies. Remember to bring:
- Boxes
- Bags
- Tape
- Labels
- Markers
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Create Categories
It’s helpful to have several categories in which to place your items. Make piles for what you want to keep, donate, sell, or throw out. When you have these piles in place, you can really get the ball rolling with decluttering.
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Be Sentimental and Bond over Memories
Allow yourself to use this time decluttering as a chance to bond with your parents. It’s very special to take certain items and reminisce about days gone by as you remember how each item was important in its time. If you are donating, selling or throwing out, allow your parents to say goodbye to the special items so that it can be celebrated that this item once had a special place in your lives.
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Find Creative Ways to Keep Memories
Nowadays, there are many creative ways to hold onto memories. Some people like to make their old shirts into quilts. Some like to create items out of their dad’s old neckties. And some just like to upload old family photos to digital photo frames. Whichever method you choose, make sure you have a wonderful way to cherish these special family memories.
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Don’t be Pushy or High-Pressure
Try not to pressure your parents to make quick decisions or to throw too much away. If something really needs to be donated, maybe suggest that it would be better suited to a different home.
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When in Doubt Call the Professionals
When the clutter gets overwhelming, call in the professionals. There are many companies that help organize homes and declutter areas. They are trained to be sensitive to your needs and they can delicately help you declutter with your loved ones.
Conclusion
When decluttering, the most important details to remember are to be organized, be sensitive and be practical. You can do this! Enjoy getting rid of that clutter and enjoying some special memories, while making new ones, with your dear parents!
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When you live in the North Houston or Woodlands area and you’re looking for in-home care for a loved one, BrightStar Care is your best option! Dedicated to compassionate care, we hire employees who treat your loved ones with respect while giving them the care they need. Our caretakers are consummate professionals who have been rigorously trained in the medical profession and are prepared to treat your loved one with the best care possible. For more information, visit our website or call us at 281-367-7827. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.