10 Jan Coping with Clutter
The television show “Hoarders” premiered on HBO with 2.5 millions viewers tuning in. If you are like me, somewhat behind on the cutting edge TV shows, you will ask “What exactly is the premise and trajectory of such a show?” Each show gives a glimpse into the lives of two people whose inability to part with their belongings is so out of control that they are on the verge of a personal crisis. Whether they’re facing eviction, the loss of their children, jail time, or divorce, they are all desperately in need of help. Experts attempt to facilitate the healing process, but cleaning is just the first step. For many, the tossing of small items is akin to throwing away precious mementos. Although the show focuses on the audacious and sensationalized stories (imagine hoarding rats, or huge mounds of trash, etc.), the core issue is something most people can identify.
The holidays especially prelude cleaning frenzies. When it comes time to help out your parents or grandparents with cleaning, the list can seem daunting. Even when family is not thrown in the ‘hoarder’ category, it is difficult to part with tokens, knick-knacks, and otherwise completely unnecessary items which hold a sentimental value. How can you begin such an endeavor? Even with a caretaker or a companion from ACCFamily on your side to help faciliate there can be helpful ways to go about ‘cleaning up clutter.’ Caring.com published a list of tips for helping with clutter and downsizing, including:
- Realize that you may be dealing with more than “stuff.”
- Draw the line at safety.
- Start small.
- Declutter in a systematic way.
- Be kind
- Frame decisions as yes-no questions.
- Avoid tackling the house in one go.
- Pack representative bits of favored items (not the whole kit and kaboodle).
- If it’s meant to be a gift or legacy, encourage giving it now.
Besides reading the above articles, mosey on over to ACCFamily.com to see how our staff can support your family in such an endeavor. Cleaning is not just for spring!