Seniors For Living

Wheelchairs. Walkers. Sanitary wipes, gloves, medication bottles, oxygen tanks. Hospital beds,  portable commodes. These are the telltale signs of caregiving.

Whether you choose home care, an assisted living apartment, or opt to care for your loved one in your own home, the environment can quickly turn “clinical” if the clutter of caregiving supplies and equipment gets out of control.

This article from Caring.com offers seven practical tips for “reclaiming your home” and preventing it from taking on the appearance of a hospital, the very sterile atmosphere you are trying to avoid by providing care at home.

The reason that many assisted living communities encourage residents to furnish their own apartments is to maintain that sense of home and individual preference, even in a place where the signs of caregiving are ever present.

In any home, clearing away clutter is a key component of maintaining a comfortable, peaceful environment. Check out our interview with “DorothytheOrganizer” of Hoarders fame. Dorothy Breininger has worked with seniors and their families for years, helping them organize their homes and deal with the difficult behaviors associated with hoarding. Concerned about a loved one who is hoarding? Deal with the issue sooner rather than later, because the time may come when a care transition is required, and hoarding behaviors will certainly complicate matters. Read more in this post, When Hoarding Complicates a Care Transition.