When an elderly parent is ready to move to a smaller home or an apartment, it can be very difficult for them to part with some of the items they have collected over the years. It can be equally as hard for adult children who are in the role of family caregivers to go through the process of downsizing with their parents. While the caregiver may not see the value in certain items, they may be very important to the senior. If you’re preparing to help your parent downsize, below are tips for making the process a little easier.
Start Talking About the Process Early
Caregivers whose parents aren’t quite ready for downsizing can help to ease the process by starting the conversation early. It can help to talk about the benefits of living in a smaller place. If the senior is amenable to moving, having a conversation about the downsizing process before starting it can help, too. Talk about what kinds of things the older adult wants to keep and what they would like to do with the things they are willing to part with. If there are items that are especially important to them, but that they cannot take, the senior may feel better giving them to family members or friends who will give them good homes. Ask people who are receiving items to pick them up promptly. Be firm about not moving items with your parent that are going to someone else.
Treat Your Parent and Their Stuff with Respect
Even though you may be your parent’s caregiver, the process will go more smoothly if you remember that your parent is still your parent. Be respectful of their wishes and empathize with them over the difficulty of having to part with possessions and move. While you’re handling their items, be respectful of them, too. Don’t treat anything like trash unless your parent confirms it is trash.
Sort Using Three Piles
As you help your parent sort through things, use a three pile system. One pile is the things the senior will be keeping. The second pile is for stuff that is in good enough shape to donate. The third pile is for the trash. Make a plan for where to donate items and how to get them there. If there is furniture to be donated or a large number of items, some organizations will come to the house with a truck and take the items for you.
Sources
https://www.democratandchronicle.com/story/lifestyle/2018/12/31/how-adult-children-can-help-their-parents-declutter-and-downsize/2431271002/
https://www.caregiver.org/downsizing-home-checklist-caregivers
https://www.humangood.org/resources/senior-living-blog/how-to-help-parents-downsize
If you or an aging loved one is considering caregivers in Lockwood, MT, please contact the caring staff at SYNERGY HomeCare Billings today at 406-839-2390.
