Fitting Items into a New Space
When seniors move into a senior community, they often have to significantly downsize to accommodate the size restrictions of their new space.
That exercise can be very freeing and can ease the transition to their new home; however, old habits can die hard or not at all and before you know it the new space may quickly fill up. This can cause frustration for the resident, as well as the community. So, what to do?
Determine What is Filling Up the Space
The first thing is to try and determine the root cause of the problem.
- Is it due to health issues or some problem that is out of the resident’s control?
- Is it about habits or lifestyle choices?
- Is it loneliness or fatigue?
Once the root cause is determined it’s much easier to help them navigate the solutions. Health issues can stop a person in their tracks and render them unable to keep up with their space. Factor in medical equipment and the space can quickly become very cluttered. Habits are rarely left behind when a resident moves to a new home. If they were used to being surrounded by a lot of belongings, then before long the stuff can begin to creep back into their space. Loneliness or fatigue can lead to depression, which in turn can cause the resident to neglect their space.
Finding a Solution
Once the root cause is determined it’s easier to find and implement solutions which may range from adjusting medical, emotional or mental care to engaging professional services, including in-home health care, senior transition or organizing services. Regardless of the root cause, the most important thing is that the resident feels supported and, in a judgement, free space. Which is often the fine line between success and failure.
If you or someone you know is struggling to get organized or needs help the downsizing or moving process, we would love to help. Schedule a free 30 minute consultation today or check out our website for lots of tips and ideas.
Darla Pompilio
Your Tasks Our Time, LLC
