Here are tips on how to declutter now to ease the burden on your loved ones later:
Start with the oldest clutter first. When was the last time you cleared out junk drawers in various rooms? Which kitchen tools do you no longer use? Toss or donate them. Are there boxes of stuff in the garage or basement or spare room that have gone unopened for many years? Can you even remember what’s in them? If a box has been around for more than four years, you’ll probably never miss the stuff inside it. Do a quick look-through for stuff which needs to be shredded and dispose of the rest.
You don’t need 10-year-old bank statements. Shred and toss them. The same with collections of old medical bills or other unimportant papers. Donate stacks of paperback books you likely will never read again, as well as sports equipment you probably won’t use again. Don’t keep clothing or shoes you haven’t worn in years, let someone else enjoy them.
For items of sentimental value, like photo albums or various certificates, make a list of who you would like them to go to after you’re gone. Put that list with your will.
Getting rid of unwanted items you’ve kept only out of habit will lighten up the space you live in. In addition, scientific research shows that decluttering your home might lessen or even end depression. Plan to work on your cleanup half an hour a day or every other day. Within a surprisingly short time, you’ll have more space and more peace of mind. Best of all, you make it easy for those who have to clean up afterward.
Wina Sturgeon is an active 55+ based in Salt Lake City.
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