In the last 50 years,
most American homes have tripled in size with each one accumulating an average
of 300,000 items. As time passes and families warm these homes with loving
moments and touching memories, we become connected to each item in our
possession over the years.
Decluttering, sorting
and organizing your belongings allows you to evaluate your property for the
next set of moments and memories you will make. For seniors in particular, this
process may be a necessity for one of the three reasons this article
highlights.
Mobility -
Reducing clutter can create more space and reduce the probability of
dangerous falls, or tripping incidents that lead to a loss of mobility. In
other cases, decluttering can be helpful to you if you are experiencing
limited mobility allowing for easier movement throughout the home.
Aging in Place -
Decluttering to prepare for a new stage in life can give you more space
for useful renovations or any mobility related home modifications.
According to a recent study, we spend close to 3,680 hours searching for misplaced items in our lifetime and lose nine items daily. If you or
someone you love suffers from memory impairment, decluttering can make
aging-in-place a more enjoyable less confusing experience.
Here are a few steps
to begin decluttering as featured in Decluttering:
How to “Let it Go!”
Decide
what items are NEEDED for living safely or comfortably. This includes
necessary items such as a bed, place for clothes, eating utensils, and so
forth.
If decluttering is a larger undertaking than you
can handle it may be time to consider hiring a professional. Caring Transitions
specializes in helping seniors and their families downsize, declutter, sort and
organize.
Sources
https://www.becomingminimalist.com/clutter-stats/
http://www.caringtransitions.com/blog/ID/1129134/How-to-Declutter-with-Liquidation-in-Mind
http://www.caringtransitions.com/blog/ID/737/Decluttering-How-to-Let-it-Go