Q. I struggle with helping my parents keep their living space organized. What are some steps I can take to get them moving in the right direction?
A. As people age, their homes often accumulate belongings, making it difficult to navigate or maintain an organized living space. Decluttering is not just about tidying up but also ensuring safety, comfort, and peace of mind for older adults. Here are some practical ways to help them declutter in a respectful and compassionate manner.
Start with Small Steps. Decluttering can feel overwhelming, so begin with a single room or even just one section of a room. Focus on areas that pose safety risks, like hallways or the kitchen. Work together to identify things that are no longer needed, whether they’re expired items, broken appliances, or things that are simply taking up unnecessary space.
Emphasize Emotional Value. Older adults often have strong emotional attachments to possessions. When sorting through items, take the time to listen to their stories and understand the significance of certain objects. This way, you can help them make decisions while respecting their feelings. If something is meaningful, keep it, but encourage letting go of items that no longer serve them.
Sort into Categories. Help create organized piles: keep, donate, sell, or toss. This method makes the process feel more manageable. For things that are still useful but no longer needed, donating can give them a second life and reduce the feeling of waste. Selling items online or hosting a garage sale might also help older adults feel more in control.
Establish a Regular Routine. Rather than decluttering all at once, encourage a regular routine of sorting through belongings every few months. This prevents clutter from building up and keeps their space organized in the long term.
Decluttering is about more than just removing items. It’s about helping older adults feel empowered and comfortable in their environment. By approaching the task with empathy, patience, and a systematic plan, you can make a meaningful difference in their lives.
If you are concerned your parents could be exhibiting hoarding behavior, call AgeSpan’s Information and Referral Department at 800-892-0890. They can connect you with trained professionals who can answer your questions and give guidance.
Joan Hatem-Roy is the chief executive officer of AgeSpan, which serves the following cities and towns: Amesbury, Andover, Billerica, Boxford, Chelmsford, Danvers, Dracut, Dunstable, Georgetown, Groveland, Haverhill, Lawrence, Lowell, Marblehead, Merrimac, Methuen, Middleton, Newbury, Newburyport, North Andover, Peabody, Rowley, Salisbury, Salem, Tewksbury, Tyngsboro, Westford, and West Newbury.
First published in the Eagle-Tribune.
