It’s that time of the year again when the snow melts and warmer temperatures creep in. Spring is slowly starting to emerge and with it, a desire to purge and clean from the blues of a long winter. “Spring cleaning” is in the air. For some, this can be an exciting time. But for many, especially seniors who may have limited mobility and energy, the idea of doing a deep clean and decluttering can be overwhelming.
It doesn’t have to be so daunting.
Here at Delmanor Elgin Mills, we have compiled some tips and tricks to make spring cleaning and decluttering easier.
Start small and don’t be afraid to ask for help
Make a plan of where you want to start. Remember, it doesn’t have to happen all at once. Break it down into multiple days if needed and list out the things you want to get done each day or each week. Ensure to leave in lots of time for breaks and rest.
When you do start, don’t go for the largest task first. Start small, such as with a closet or a shelf.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help moving heavy items, reaching things, or just to have a helping hand. Safety should be a top priority.
Create designated spaces and make use of storage solutions
Utilize specific areas for common things. For example, use a key holder for keys near the front door, or a basket for mail. Not only will this help avoid clutter in other areas of your house, but it will also aid in remembering where these items are.
Make use of storage solutions such as bins, baskets, and shelves to keep items organized. If your home is small, use solutions like hanging organizers which maximize vertical space.
In many cases, you don’t need to go out to purchase storage solutions, you likely have what you need already. Repurpose existing items, such as using an old shoe box to store gloves.
Sort through items, check expiration dates, and take safety precautions
Go through the items in your house and divide them into three piles, one for keeping, one for throwing away, and one for donating. You will likely be surprised at the number of things you don’t want or need anymore.
Sort through your medication, checking expiration dates and status of refills. Ensure you have what you need for the coming months. Similarly, look through the fridge and pantry and discard any expired items.
Filing cabinets can also be a big source of clutter. Ensure to sort through them to make sure that essential health, financial, and legal documents are organized and easily accessible.
Check all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. To do this, press and hold the test button to ensure that the alarms are functional.
Don’t forget to clean these easily missed areas
There are many areas in our homes that we tend to forget about but need to be cleaned regularly.
- Dust, clean, and replace air filters. This can improve air quality and reduce asthma symptoms.
- Give extra care to your washing machine and clothes dryer. Remove built-up lint from the dryer trap and clean detergent drawers and compartments.
- Remove food and debris from the dishwasher filter. Check for any damage or leaks which can cause a larger mess later if left unattended.
If daily chores feel overwhelming, or you’re seeking a worry-free lifestyle with more time for the things you love, it may be the perfect time to explore new living options.
For those in Richmond Hill looking for a stress-free retirement solution, visit Delmanor Elgin Mills. This Tridel-inspired community offers a range of services, including Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care. Join us for a Lunch & Tour to learn more!
