How to Help an Elderly Loved One Downsize

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Whether it’s because of personal safety reasons or the need to move into a smaller living space, many seniors will eventually face the need to get rid of certain things they’ve acquired over the years. When your senior loved one has to make some room, it’s likely he or she will need assistance with the project. Here are some tips on how to help your loved one with downsizing. 

Communicate

Don’t wait until your loved one is physically or financially forced to downsize. Your family should have the discussion early on, allowing plenty of time to adjust to the reality of downsizing. During this discussion, detail all of the advantages of downsizing, and allow your loved one to voice his or her opinions and wishes. Develop a plan of action to make the downsizing process less chaotic. Having this discussion will allow your loved one to remain involved in every aspect of the process, making it feel more like a choice instead of being forced to walk away from his or her home. 

Getting rid of personal belongings can be difficult for seniors, especially when the items have emotional value. Talk to your loved one about what to expect, and develop a plan for downsizing before you physically begin the project. Open, honest communication can prevent some problems that may arise while downsizing. 

Downsizing can be an emotional experience for seniors. It’s important to make sure your loved one has the support he or she needs to remain happy and healthy. Elderly home care agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Lifestar Home Care, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. Our caregivers encourage seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy.

Begin the Sorting Process

If your loved one is moving out of his or her home, sorting may take several days or longer. Help your loved one set up three separate sorting areas for items to save, donate, or recycle. To save time, sort each type of recyclable into the appropriate bin and take the items to the designated drop-off location. Some charities also offer free pickups if you have large furniture to donate. You can use plastic bins to easily sort and transport small items your loved one wants to recycle or donate. 

Many older adults require assistance with various tasks as they age. Seniors can face a variety of age-related challenges. Though some families choose to take on the caregiving duties, there may come a time when they need a trusted Oklahoma City Home Care provider. Families sometimes need respite from their duties so they can focus on their other responsibilities, and some seniors need around-the-clock assistance that their families are not able to provide. Lifestar Home Care is here to help.

Sell Valuables

If valuable items like antique furnishings are too large to move into your loved one’s new home, selling them is an option. Take the time to research prices if you’re listing the items online, or have a yard sale and donate any items that are left over at the end of the sale. 

If your loved one wants to sell valuables online, spend some time going over the basics of online safety. You can also list and sell the items yourself if you have time to devote to the project. 

Find Help

Sorting through an entire household may take several weekends to complete. In some cases, it’s important to declutter the home quickly to ensure your loved one is safe. To quickly declutter the home, ask family members for assistance or consider hiring outside help. An impartial third party, such as a professional organizer, can help your loved one let go of things he or she no longer needs or uses.

If your loved one needs around-the-clock care because of Alzheimer’s or dementia, consider hiring a caregiver to give you more time to devote to decluttering the home. There are a variety of reasons to consider professional Dementia Care. Oklahoma City dementia caregivers are available 24/7 to help seniors maintain better cognitive health, and they can also assist with various tasks like medication reminders, transportation to medical appointments, and nutritious meal preparation. Lifestar Home Care can be your trusted partner when your loved one needs help with the challenges of aging. Call us today to learn about our high-quality in-home care services.

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