I’ve been on a decluttering journey lately, and it’s made me think about how many older adults find themselves needing to declutter as well. Decluttering is the process of letting go of items that no longer have a place in your life—such as old dishes, worn linens, or clothing that no longer fits your needs. This often becomes more important as older adults downsize, move, or adjust to changes in mobility or daily routines. Rather than having unused items take up valuable space, thoughtful decluttering can make the home feel safer, more comfortable, and easier to manage.
Giving It Away to Family Members
Many older adults have meaningful items they’d like to pass along to family members. These belongings can take up a lot of space, and sharing them with loved ones can be a practical and emotional way to declutter. Family members may also be able to help by transporting items to donation centers if that’s difficult to do alone. Asking for help—from family, friends, or neighbors—is often an important part of the decluttering process.
Host a Yard Sale
Another option, depending on your energy level and ability, is hosting a yard sale. Some older adults choose to work with estate sale services, which handle cataloging, organizing, setup, and cleanup for you. While yard and estate sales can be labor-intensive, they may be a good option if your neighborhood is hosting a coordinated sale, which can increase foot traffic and make the effort more worthwhile.
For items that won’t be kept or sold, organizations like Goodwill’s donation guide offer clear information on what can be donated and how to prepare items, which can simplify the decision-making process.
If decluttering is part of a broader transition, you may also find it helpful to read our post on staying active and supported during life changes, which touches on adapting routines as needs evolve.
This article is for general informational purposes only and is not medical advice. CareBuilders at Home provides non-medical home care services that support daily living and independence.
I have more ideas to share—some that are less physically demanding—and I’ll be covering those tomorrow. Be sure to check back with us then!
Written by Brigid Stakelum
