I had to drastically downsize into a one-bedroom senior living apartment. The most overwhelming part was getting rid of stuff! Not the decision making, but the actual moving of boxes somewhere. My local charity shops were rejecting a lot of things because they are too full! There are only so many places to donate, and it seems everyone is decluttering these days. I finally gave myself permission to JUST THROW THINGS INTO THE DUMPSTER! There. I said it. I hope this gives someone permission to unburden themselves. It's all eventually garbage. Dust to dust. I am so happy to be rid of all the excess.
Yes! I'm downsizing also, at 70. I gift things to people I know can use it. But, yep, a lot went into the dumpster. Sounds wasteful and sad, but it will likely end up there anyway. LOL kept a garbage bag by the door and "donated to it daily. Week by week my house emptied. 😊
I heard that.. On my way to a senior place but so much stuff to get rid of. Things in a garage that haven't been looked at in years & my daughter thinks it is her storage unit! Surprise, it's all going in a dumpster, regardless of what it is, it's going!! And, of course nobody wants to help , they're all SO busy, well... I'm DONE & not feeling guilty about it... Shame on them all... Merry Christmas and a very happy 2025!!! It's going to be great... ❤️🇱🇷🍀🙏😘
Thank you for sharing this video. It was informative without being pushy. I'm 73 and have a problem of being overwhelmed about things all my life. Now I'm on my own and don't have my husband to keep me straight., he died in November 8 days before his birthday. I miss him. But, God is with me and if I let Him he will help me all the way. Amen 🙂
What decorators call passe' decor I call the comfort & peace of my belongings around me.Pictures of loved ones - esp. those no longer with us are comforting to me. Also my antique furniture - all gifts from family at some stage of my life, are also comforting.I would not find comfort in going out & buying new stuff now at 75 yr old.I enjoy looking at a certain kitchen item and remembering my Mom using it when I was little. So what if my home is not the newest decor - that is just BS to make you spend money on things you don't need. I've had many of my pieces since I was 20 in my first apartment.They may be refinished and repaired but nothing takes away their history - the history of my family.
@@ginger1549 Your perspective is so touching and meaningful. Surrounding yourself with items tied to memories and family history adds such depth and comfort to a home. It’s refreshing to see someone embrace the sentimental value of their belongings over fleeting trends. Your home truly tells your life story-what a beautiful sentiment!
We all have to find our own comfort levels. I'm 70 and my house is not modern at all. Lots of cherished memories. But I still have my limit of how much is too much, or it is stressful and uncomfortable. I am disabled and want to keep my house easy to clean.
I totally agree with you. Decluttering (what an unpleasant word) is just editing what does not serve you. I edit as I see fit. You do that. You have items that serve you. That is not “stuff.” My taste is not a minimal look. I also dislike the word dated that some use for household furnishing or clothes. Every Magazine seems to have the same boring white, beige, gray open shelving look. They all look alike and lack personality. If I did what they said, that look would be dated in 15 years. My answer when I hear the word “dated “ “So what, my body is dated at 78. Thank you for the breath of fresh air and common sense.
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@@MsAugust30 I passed some items down to neices and one nephew on the other coast. Tossed and donated household items (unused curtains, towels, utenstils.
I’m 82 and started decluttering a couple of months ago. It’s difficult at my age but I’m determined to do it. My husband is actually getting rid of things. I never thought he would.
@ same here. He has 5 brothers and they all give each other more stuff. They grew up not having much, so he saves because he might need it someday. Plus, he’s a geologist and he has a LOT of maps, rocks, and file cabinets full of every paper ever generated in his life. Sigh.
Thank for this video. Life is not how you dream. I saved many things for my daughter and son. My wishes to save many things for a future home for himself; my daughter is the opposite and actually evil as she hates what I saved - I have to admit I do have a lot of clutter. On Dec. 26th I started clearing cabinets in the kitchen and today saw your video. Hopefully my next Christmas EVERYTHING is in order, thrown or donated. I’m getting rid of ALL of my daughter’s items I do not cherish, many of my husband junk is gone now. Wish me well!!!
The other reason for de-cluttering is, as well as enjoying our homes more now, there is less clutter for our families to sort through after we have gone . Thank you for this useful video
My son has the number of two heritage sales companies in my area. Family members take what they want. Then, these folks do an estate sale for my son. They do everything. Compared to the ease of process, it will cost him very little. And, I can keep my stuff.
That’s scary because I’m trying to not think about that. I was kid 7 with over 20 years between me and my oldest sibling. Thank goodness for nieces, nephews and cousins and my mom’s family has a family reunion every June. Janice
This is so true! My parents decluttered and got to the point where they lived in a very decluttered and tidy one room in-law apartment. All they had for long term “storage” was one floor to ceiling cupboard. When they passed away, it literally only took me 2 days to sort through their things. I kept all the sentimental or valuable things. The rest (mostly clothes, linens, kitchen items) I donated. I hear so many stories of it taking family MONTHS to clear out a loved one’s home. I feel so bad for them. It’s a loving thing to take this burden from them when you pass. I hope to do the same as my parents, and spare my children the burden of stuff.
Wow, I never realized how some of these items were contributing to the clutter in my home! After watching this, I’m definitely going to tackle some of these areas. It’s amazing how much more peaceful a decluttered space can feel. Thanks for the helpful tips-looking forward to creating a more organized home! 🏡✨
I decided to move from 10 acres, a 2,500 sq. ft. house, a 5,250 sq. ft. shop, an art studio the size of a 3 car garage, and a 3 car garage, full of more than 50 years of "collecting." I even gave away a sailboat. I bought a new destination RV 3,000 miles away. I ordered the items I needed. I came and set it up and lived in my new location for six months, then went back to my big house to live for 3 months. I proceeded to give away, donate, and dump all that I owned that remained which my kids hadn't brought back to their home the year before. After my husband died I didn't need all that space nor did I need all of those things. It has been an adventure and I'm glad I'm done. I am 80 and I love living in my tiny home. Yes, it is a relief.
@@judyross182 Good for you.. I'm moving into a senior apartment and crying cause it's a lot of work alone Can't believe that I had so much stuff & have to rid myself of 79 years worth of BS... I'm throwing it in a dumpster! My kids don't care, all have an attitude cause I'm annoying, imagine that?! I'm annoying, what about the the lines I stood on overbite to get presents the"y " Had" to have or how many times did I see Star Wars in the cinema sitting there annoyed that my son was still watching Teenage Mutant Turtles after 4 times! My girls think I'm the storage unit thru both own & I'm done! No body to help but everyone wants me to hold on into it, it's a collectable, yeah, so keep it cause it's going on a dumpster. I don't need Barbie or cabbage patch kids, actually when zi do move ( January) I'm not even putting up pictures that I've had for years of them! I know whY they look like, how they act & left me to deal with all this BS. I'm really upset so my Irish is way up & it's all going . Can't come with me that's for sure. And, mark my words all three of them will have a certain thing that I threw away, they'll be upset & tell me all about myself. But, not here to sort, go thru anything, clothes , shoes, pictures,pictures more pictures! I have memories so no need for pictures! Their going to hate me but they half way do anyway, I'm going full throttle just to SHOCK these creatures I've raised to be selfish monsters.... I'm not an option any more.. So, please pray that I get thru it all... Thanks, Happy New Year- it's going to be great!! I'm praying for a few Blessings for all... ❤️🇱🇷🍀🙏😘
I agree. One of my favorite things to do is get rid of stuff. I do keep the furniture because replacement is so expensive. Only have valences instead of curtains. Did not buy any Christmas presents because we don't need anything .
I am so happy I'm very neat, clean, and organize!....I go through my large apartment and declutter every 6 months.....I must admit I'm OCD-ISH☺.....I even DOWNSIZED my life since the 2008 Recession!....I LIVE my life nice but simple, healthy, daily exercise., clutter free, maintaining my yearly health maintenance, PRAY DAILY, read the bible DAILY, and eat a Mediterranean diet way of eating, continue to keep my inner peace, sense of style, and continues to enjoy ART, Theater, music, ETC
My happiest moments were finding a big bag of yarns (& sometimes the tools!) for sale in a charity shop or resale store! 🤩 I'd ALWAYS buy it & share with my very grateful daughter-in-laws, so PLEASE donate!!! 😍
If completely overwhelmed I think she needs to take care of herself. I admit I would feel guilty BUT guilt is ok if ready for a nervous breakdown due to stress and depression. Tossing is sometimes a necessary thing.
@@anitawebster9450 by any chance do you live in NC. I’m moving & I have yarn, macrame jute, crochet/knitting books, & lots of sewing stuff I’ll give you.
I gave my granddaughter 6 steriite totes full of un opened yarn. I have arthritis in both hands and probably another 4 Starlite totes of Yarn that I will get rid of if I can't crochet without a lot of pain this winter. Thanks for the suggestion.
I come from a family of hoarders and I was their dumping grounds for getting rid of stuff. Finally with barely room to walk around in my small house, I had enough. I sell, donate, recycle or throw out. If I don't love it or need it, it goes. I'm 60 and if I want to move into smaller housing I'm not taking all this junk . I always have a donate box going. It's so much easier to clean and as I dig my way out of the hoard I'm finding things I haven't seen in years. My holiday vacation this year is cleaning, repairing, reorganizing, and rethinking what I love and need in my tiny house . One by one I'm going through closets and drawers. Break it down to the ridiculous. Do what you can.
I have papers and such, it mostly does not add value, most all of it. Emotional clutter, is tough. I am getting rid of stuff. I know that my kids do not want most of my gunk. A photo album is grand. Every thing is in one spot. I have gotten rid of every thing plastic in my kitchen.. many duplicates and serving dishes. I am getting there. You are amazing, I have a hobby space that is out of control.. I have been letting things go and gone no spend on hobbies this entire past year. I just subscribed to this Chanel. I love this kind of encouragement.
@@cynthiaakacyndsmith6539 You’re doing such a fantastic job decluttering! Tackling emotional clutter and simplifying your space takes real effort, but your progress is inspiring. Staying committed to no-spend hobbies and focusing on what adds value is truly commendable. Keep it up-you’re on the right track!
I am at a point right now where I want to rent a dumpster and put it outside my front door and just shovel everything into it. Pure and simple, I have too much stuff. And you are right, it is very stressful, having all this crap. I bought that book, the Spark Joy book…yeah. Haven’t read it yet. It’s sitting on top of the giant pile of other books I might get around to reading some day. I recently watched a video on thrift stores and donations, and it said that most of what is donated winds up in the landfills anyway, that maybe 30% is resold. Barges of our cheap cast off clothes (USA and UK) go to places like Africa, where even they can’t use all of it and it winds up in their landfills, or worse, in the ocean. We buy too much stuff, and justify it by thinking we can donate it later, but really, it’s just wasteful.
There is one series of books that really motivated me many years ago to get rid of junk, including my husband. The best and first book of the series is titled "Clutter's Last Stand," the author is Don Aslett, a man who owned his own professional cleaning business for many years. His advice is so good, and his writing is so delightful, it's nearly impossible to put the book down, but it also strongly motivates the reader to get up and get busy clearing out their house. It really, truly works!
The tips were not only practical but also incredibly relatable. It's refreshing to see such thoughtful advice tailored to people over 60, and the focus on both physical and emotional clutter was spot on. The transformation of Mary’s home felt inspiring, and the step-by-step approach made it easy to envision applying the tips in my own space. Keep up the amazing work!
In Sweden, they call it death cleaning. It’s preparing for when you are no longer here and therefore not leaving a huge mess for your loved ones to have to sort through and clean up which I have had to do now with my mother’s house and my brothers house, and it is a daunting task which takes an incredibly long time and a lot of emotional effort to get done. So by engaging in death cleaning you are saving your family, a lot of grief when you die. And really, it is your responsibility to sort out your things and work out what is rubbish and what is something that needs to be thrown away, given to charity, perhaps given to friends or why not give you Love ones, they’re special little inheritances while you still are alive. If you intend to give a special vase or a tea service and so on to your niece or your daughter, then why not give it to them now while you are alive and you can see the joy that it gives them. of course that’s a personal decision, especially if it’s involving things like jewelry that perhaps you are still wearing, but certain things like bone china collections or that antique dining table and sideboard and coffee table set that your daughter just loves would be a perfect way of decluttering your house and making room for some smaller newer fresher pieces for yourself to enjoy. I am 70, and I have done death cleaning at least five times over the last 20 years and it has helped keep my house the cluttered and keep my stress levels low so I really recommend it. ❤❤❤🙌🏻
I wish everyone would do this, it has taken me a year to sort out my late parents stuff and I'm still not done. It's so time consuming, overwhelming and emotionally draining.
This is what I did 10 year ago when I moved and for the past 18 months, one hour a week. It worked, cause I wanted it to succeed. It's exactly as the lady in this episode is telling us. If you're not so good at it, ask a friend, who's better at it, to help you. No one's good at everything😁.
Since years I reorganize my clutter every year. Since I had to empty the flat of my mother when she died, I decided that my children dont‘have to do it for me and that it is bether to buy less but good quality. Even on black friday i buy just nothing. My home is still rich of some meanful colorful clutter but only things that I love. So people loves my flat because it‘s cosy.
I parted with my wedding dress a few months ago. I took it to a place like good will. Before parting with it I hung it in front of the closet door so it would be in my way each time I had to look in the closet. Having the dress in such an inconvenient place helped me reinforce the truth that the dress was in the way. Previously it was taking up space in the closet and was easier to forget about how much space it required.
I'm a guy, and when I moved the movers moved the heavy pieces, but I carried the drawers... So the end result is that on the surface, everything looks great... Just don't open any of the drawers because they contain, well to be honest I don't know. Great tips.And I guess it's time to get going. Great video, many tips!!!!
I grew up in a hoarder house. I’ve had to come back the other way and not judge it in a superior way however it does make me feel better to be more organized and careful. I’m OK with being neat.
As far as expired meds, this I do regularly. I have been getting rid of unused stuff little by little. I have one junk drawer, which I organized about 6 months ago Andis still in good shape. As far as electronics ,I gave several old phones and cords! Lots, but I want to get rid of them safely. I haven't heard of stores that take them.i myst look into that. I declutter my closet seasonally. The hardest things for me to declutter are craft items (fabric and yarn) and books.
It sounds like you're doing an amazing job tackling clutter! For your old electronics, many recycling centers or stores accept them safely-you might want to check out options nearby. Craft items and books can be tough, but maybe donating to local schools or libraries could help?
I’m 57 and going through my cluttered kitchen cabinets now. I had lot of glass jars, plastic containers than I thought. I’m getting rid of plastic containers that don’t have lids. I had more lids than containers. We bought a pull out that is adjustable so I can pull out and see whats in back now. I will tackle cabinet under sink next. Theres lots of cleaners there. Most don’t get used.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts! I completely understand that replacing items like furniture and window treatments might not always be feasible on a fixed income. The video aims to highlight simple ways to reduce clutter without breaking the bank, like reorganizing or repurposing what you already have.
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I did all my window treatments after moving into retirement community. Big box stores also have curtains incl ones that block people from seeing in at night at reasonable prices like H. Depot incl rods. I also got rid of excess furniture as it wasn't needed.
That sounds like such a thoughtful way to create a cozy and functional space! Updating window treatments for privacy and simplicity is a great idea, especially with affordable options. Decluttering furniture must have made the space feel even more open and relaxing. Great tips for anyone downsizing or redecorating!
Swedish death cleaning is life changing!! I didn’t have a fraction of all this video did but I started getting rid of things I didn’t need, use or want and 15 car loads of things to the thrift store later, I feel freer, lighter and so much better. The hardest part is letting go of “sentimental attachments” and giving yourself permission to let go of them. Mine came in waves. Some things I was ready to let go immediately and other things came later. Honestly I’m still collecting things to donate. It’s so much less to take care of or store.
I think this is very interesting and is good for me ( a thirty something ! ) as it it for today's active seniors....thanks ! BB from somewhere in Louisiana USA 🤠♥️
True I didn’t think to check spice dates. I remember when a guy was upset when the kids cleaned out the cabinet after his wife died, I felt bad for him , but after we talked we figured there probably were expired items, now he can get a fresh start😊
I don’t mind keeping good things that I myself rarely use or never use because when the helper arrives to fix the things that I cannot I have lost count of the times I am asked if I have some tool or other and I feel very glad that for the most part I can say “yes. Some of my stuff I know my son would be more than happy to receive but because I know that the helpers may need them he will have to wait. The personal things that mean something to me but not to him he can put out for the garbage collection, it won’t take long to get the pile together. Many of us have clothes that are rarely worn such as (in my case) summer dresses, but we need a few.
Things that bring you joy are a big part of feeling a home is a home. What are those things? What things give me a sense of joy? 1. favorite cookbooks, so declutter the kitchen for trying those new things in those favorite cookbooks. 2. favorite items of clothing, lose those extra pounds so they fit better and wear them. 3. hiking and camping gear, 'keep the best get rid of the rest'. 4. techie stuff, declutter. My top source of joy is expanse of space in rooms with windows for natural light, rooms with no doors or doors open, and warm tones of accents with neutral natural colors of the most pleasant environments I have been. I thought I love forests and mountain vistas, yes I do, to visit. At my home, I love water reflections of glass and high polish floors, colors and texture of beach sand and sunshine, sunrise and sunsets. The colors in my home reflect that. The livingroom is the best expression. My bedroom has my health maintainance gear, so much like a stylish sports club. My bathroom, my spa. The linen closet has towels and a change of bedding. The spare bedroom is an office of low key tech, minimum cables, important paperwork only, as you say, and few photos in an archival box under the bed. The garage is an open space, lighting adequate, walls hold garden and the yard tools are at the back of the garage. I have one bicycle and one set of extra parts in the corner near the door. ..oh, I was fantasizing! This house, garage, garden and yard is what I want for my house, garage, garden and yard. It is a work in progress. Thank you, your presentation is so accurate and so real.
Im a little afraid of mine, its deep, I'll be reaching in to get to the bottom and may fall in and freeze to death. There they'll find me, 6 months later with a 2005 Chocolate Easter bunny in my cold dead hands. 🥶
Even frozen foods have an expiration date, so when freezing anything it’s important to put a date on it. Believe it or not, most frozen foods are only good for 6 months. Some for 3. So it pays to look into it.😊
@@SuziBerg Freezing food is a perfect way to store and preserve food. Unless you shop every other day or buy high priced single servings of meat,( ice cream?) It saves vast amts of money when stocking up on sale items or preserving your own fruits and veg. An its a life saver in an emergency, keeping foods frozen for up to a week without power. I put gal. bottles of water in there too for emergencies....I just lose track of whats all in there.
Darlene, ` Thank you for this video I have the need to declutter because of living a good life, also i had Brain surgery and it had an effect on keeping even more items? needless to say I needed this and need! to do It. it was calm and helpful. Sincerely Darlene.
I recently did my living trust, and I told my son, "I'm leaving you the house." He looked horrified and shouted, "No!" Wow, it never occurred to me that he wouldn't want the house because of all the "stuff" inside. I've started the tough job of unloading all this stuff I thought I needed. Our adult children probably live in smaller places and have their own space issues. No way do they want our things, too!
Put all the important papers in one drawer, and make sure your next of kin know exactly where to find them when they are trying to sort things out after you have gone.
I have endless scratch pads with "list of things to The idea to digitize sounds perfect!! do" and I keep transferring them to new pads, it's cluttering crazy!
Let them be some older people retain things for memories and bring them joy my mother just passed and she still had things from when I was little I'm 64 my dad passed and my younger brother she still had their things !! Leave them be!!
I agree. I cleaned out my mother's place when she moved into aged care with dementia. Yes it's not a nice job, but it's a couple of days hard work and it's done. It's not too much to ask. Let old people keep their things and we'll deal with it for them when it's time.
Yeah, unbelievable. I had a bag in the fridge with condiments, probably 20 years old, omg throw it out. Now I have a little cup with condiments and I never buy bottles of condiments anymore.
I always need several pairs of scissors and other tools. But yes most things are unnecessary triplicates. Having moved many times I’ve purged so many things. Very hard to do and some things have caused me great regrets.
I had to laugh while you told us of the first thing making clutter. I do paper crafting as a hobby; and indeed, this room I am sitting in has stacks of books, magazines and papers. Fear not! The rest of my home is furnished simply and most everything has been pruned down to facilitate ease of clearing for when the time comes. There is also a list of four different groups who will take all my crafting items in total for use in the arts programs in their schools and community centers. I didn’t finish the video though. I
"Great tip! High humidity can definitely affect medications. Storing them in a cool, dry place like a kitchen cabinet can help them last longer and stay effective."
I’m a 69 year old single lady. I live in an senior apartments. My problem is that I live in a small apartment. So even having a few items can make it feel cluttered. I have been purging now for a couple of months. Every time I clean one area I will find more stuff. It’s very difficult and overwhelming.
@itsmoi55 Haha, nothing wrong with a little 'lovely clutter' if it makes your home feel cozy and personal! 😊 But if you ever decide to tidy up just a bit, I’ve got some fun tips in my video you might enjoy!
I'm a natural minimalist.. clutter makes my brain scream..why waste valuable LIFE time searching, digging, sorting through crap you DON'T need? I've digitized my 56,000 photos, sorted them and now DISPLAY them on my computer so I SEE them, and enjoy them every day.. I've also scanned important paperwork.. and kept ONE file folder.. my life is simple, yet full. Thank you for your video.
😂😂 Some things just don’t seem that important as we age, here’s my 91 year old outlook, if you don’t like the way I keep house stay away. I realize that isn’t for everyone but it works for me...Critical people I can do without.
I take my photos and go through them. Then I categorize them. I get a large recipe box and put them in there with the dividers saying what they are. For example, my husband and I used to go to Niagara Falls every year. I put them all together in on the divider. I write Niagara Falls vacation it works great.
That’s such a wonderful and creative idea! Organizing your memories like that must make them so easy to revisit and enjoy. I love how you’ve preserved your trips to Niagara Falls-it sounds like such a special tradition with your husband. Thanks for sharing this inspiring tip!
But be mindful, will anyone want the photos of you at Niagara falls every year when you are gone? I threw away my parents vacation snaps in favour of family pictures. You can't keep everything.
I cleaned out my messes and it felt a tight band rubber band taken off my brain. I would breath and when my friends come into my apparent they say it is so peaceful in your apartment. 94
I think I have 7 Knick knacks, strategically placed so they each get the notice I think they deserve. I’m a bit concerned that with my sister moving in with me in June she’ll bring a truckload with her. I hate that clutter.
If I want a cluttered free home I need to toss out my husband with the next box of donations. Everytime I free up a space my husband puts something else in the space I just cleared out. 😅
My car fits easily in my garage, but I’ve given myself the task of entirely emptying the other half of the garage. I have tools and camping stuff there.
Oh my gosh. That sounds like our home. We need to go through every drawer, closet, ect. I’m going to the liquor store and getting empty boxes to fill. Room by room. I helped my mom downsize and it was a nightmare. We don’t want our kids to suffer the same fate.
Estate Sales are the solution for leftover STUFF your heirs don't want. Customers buy what they want. Heirs get money. Sounds like a good trade to me. Yes I'm keeping ALLLL the things. I bought them deliberately. If there comes a time surfaces can't be seen or mere paths not walkable anywhere, there's a dumpster right out back....AND a burn pile. Haven't got to that. Personal technical library can be sent to museum of same.
Four draw filing cabinet is good to alphabetically file away invoices/bills, manuals for appliances and business cards. Rather than stuffing them in every draw around the house you can find then have trouble finding that particular item. I’ve recently cleared out my kitchen cupboards, after clearing out stuff I haven’t used for ages, I now have room in my cupboards. Cleared out my linen cupboard and wardrobe. Handing it to a charitable company doesn’t make you feel guilty. I dislike clutter and avoid buying things I really don’t need. You don’t take them with you when you pass and will only create more work for your children to clear your mess.
Stacks of paper can definitely be overwhelming! Sometimes tackling just one small pile at a time makes a big difference. Do you have any tricks that work for managing paper clutter?
@@janpetsch620"It’s okay to have struggles-having ADHD doesn’t define your strength or worth. You’re doing the best you can, and that’s enough. Remember, even small wins matter, and you’re not alone on this journey. Sending you encouragement and a big virtual hug!"
😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢 believe it or not I didn't realize it that I had enough paper to fill up at least eight bathtubs but I got rid of that now I'm down to a face Bowl full and get ready to work on that tonight and tomorrow
I bought furniture at a consignment store last year. The prices were reasonable and the quality much better than new stuff.
I had to drastically downsize into a one-bedroom senior living apartment. The most overwhelming part was getting rid of stuff! Not the decision making, but the actual moving of boxes somewhere. My local charity shops were rejecting a lot of things because they are too full! There are only so many places to donate, and it seems everyone is decluttering these days. I finally gave myself permission to JUST THROW THINGS INTO THE DUMPSTER! There. I said it. I hope this gives someone permission to unburden themselves. It's all eventually garbage. Dust to dust. I am so happy to be rid of all the excess.
Great reason to be minimalist. The less you own, the freer you are. Minimalist homes to me are so beautiful.
Yes! I'm downsizing also, at 70. I gift things to people I know can use it. But, yep, a lot went into the dumpster. Sounds wasteful and sad, but it will likely end up there anyway. LOL kept a garbage bag by the door and "donated to it daily. Week by week my house emptied. 😊
Thank you @belle6219. I needed that permission!
I moved during covid, and nothing was open to donate.
I heard that.. On my way to a senior place but so much stuff to get rid of. Things in a garage that haven't been looked at in years & my daughter thinks it is her storage unit! Surprise, it's all going in a dumpster, regardless of what it is, it's going!! And, of course nobody wants to help , they're all SO busy, well... I'm DONE & not feeling guilty about it... Shame on them all... Merry Christmas and a very happy 2025!!! It's going to be great... ❤️🇱🇷🍀🙏😘
Thank you for sharing this video. It was informative without being pushy. I'm 73 and have a problem of being overwhelmed about things all my life. Now I'm on my own and don't have my husband to keep me straight., he died in November 8 days before his birthday. I miss him. But, God is with me and if I let Him he will help me all the way. Amen 🙂
So sorry for your loss. Sending hugs 🤗 from Australia 🦘.
What decorators call passe' decor I call the comfort & peace of my belongings around me.Pictures of loved ones - esp. those no longer with us are comforting to me. Also my antique furniture - all gifts from family at some stage of my life, are also comforting.I would not find comfort in going out & buying new stuff now at 75 yr old.I enjoy looking at a certain kitchen item and remembering my Mom using it when I was little. So what if my home is not the newest decor - that is just BS to make you spend money on things you don't need. I've had many of my pieces since I was 20 in my first apartment.They may be refinished and repaired but nothing takes away their history - the history of my family.
@@ginger1549 Your perspective is so touching and meaningful. Surrounding yourself with items tied to memories and family history adds such depth and comfort to a home. It’s refreshing to see someone embrace the sentimental value of their belongings over fleeting trends. Your home truly tells your life story-what a beautiful sentiment!
We all have to find our own comfort levels. I'm 70 and my house is not modern at all. Lots of cherished memories. But I still have my limit of how much is too much, or it is stressful and uncomfortable. I am disabled and want to keep my house easy to clean.
I totally agree with you. Decluttering (what an unpleasant word) is just editing what does not serve you. I edit as I see fit. You do that. You have items that serve you. That is not “stuff.” My taste is not a minimal look. I also dislike the word dated that some use for household furnishing or clothes. Every Magazine seems to have the same boring white, beige, gray open shelving look. They all look alike and lack personality. If I did what they said, that look would be dated in 15 years. My answer when I hear the word “dated “ “So what, my body is dated at 78. Thank you for the breath of fresh air and common sense.
@@MsAugust30 I passed some items down to neices and one nephew on the other coast. Tossed and donated household items (unused curtains, towels, utenstils.
I agree totally, why should I get rid of things that bring back such lovely memories
Invisible clutter.
1. Paperwork piles
2. Gifts. Sentimental, but unused.
3. Medicines
In plain sight
4. Plastic plants, fruit. Old decor.
5. Junk drawers
6. Electronics, devices, wires
Emotional clutter
7. Keepsakes, sentimental ,souvenirs
8. Clothes no longer wear/fit
Everyday clutter
9. Plastic containers
10. Duplicates
11. Hobby supplies
Just in case
12. Expired spices etc
13. Fix it later items
14. Furniture outdated
15. Collections
I’m 82 and started decluttering a couple of months ago. It’s difficult at my age but I’m determined to do it. My husband is actually getting rid of things. I never thought he would.
I'm so glad your hubby is on board with you. He sounds like a 'keeper' 👍
You should see my husband’s office ! 😱😱😱. He seems to be comforted by memorabilia. e.g. junk.
@ same here. He has 5 brothers and they all give each other more stuff. They grew up not having much, so he saves because he might need it someday. Plus, he’s a geologist and he has a LOT of maps, rocks, and file cabinets full of every paper ever generated in his life. Sigh.
Mary wins here... my jar of Bay Leaves was only 22 years old 😂 The years just fly by nowadays...
lol
Thank for this video. Life is not how you dream. I saved many things for my daughter and son. My wishes to save many things for a future home for himself; my daughter is the opposite and actually evil as she hates what I saved - I have to admit I do have a lot of clutter. On Dec. 26th I started clearing cabinets in the kitchen and today saw your video. Hopefully my next Christmas EVERYTHING is in order, thrown or donated. I’m getting rid of ALL of my daughter’s items I do not cherish, many of my husband junk is gone now. Wish me well!!!
Your daughter is not evil because she doesn’t care for the things you saved for her. Let her find her own treasured items in life.
The other reason for de-cluttering is, as well as enjoying our homes more now, there is less clutter for our families to sort through after we have gone . Thank you for this useful video
I found out just recently that it has a name -- Swedish Death Cleaning.
My son has the number of two heritage sales companies in my area. Family members take what they want. Then, these folks do an estate sale for my son. They do everything. Compared to the ease of process, it will cost him very little. And, I can keep my stuff.
That’s scary because I’m trying to not think about that. I was kid 7 with over 20 years between me and my oldest sibling. Thank goodness for nieces, nephews and cousins and my mom’s family has a family reunion every June. Janice
Correct! Swedish death cleaning.
This is so true! My parents decluttered and got to the point where they lived in a very decluttered and tidy one room in-law apartment. All they had for long term “storage” was one floor to ceiling cupboard. When they passed away, it literally only took me 2 days to sort through their things. I kept all the sentimental or valuable things. The rest (mostly clothes, linens, kitchen items) I donated. I hear so many stories of it taking family MONTHS to clear out a loved one’s home. I feel so bad for them. It’s a loving thing to take this burden from them when you pass. I hope to do the same as my parents, and spare my children the burden of stuff.
Wow, I never realized how some of these items were contributing to the clutter in my home! After watching this, I’m definitely going to tackle some of these areas. It’s amazing how much more peaceful a decluttered space can feel. Thanks for the helpful tips-looking forward to creating a more organized home! 🏡✨
I decided to move from 10 acres, a 2,500 sq. ft. house, a 5,250 sq. ft. shop, an art studio the size of a 3 car garage, and a 3 car garage, full of more than 50 years of "collecting." I even gave away a sailboat.
I bought a new destination RV 3,000 miles away. I ordered the items I needed. I came and set it up and lived in my new location for six months, then went back to my big house to live for 3 months. I proceeded to give away, donate, and dump all that I owned that remained which my kids hadn't brought back to their home the year before.
After my husband died I didn't need all that space nor did I need all of those things. It has been an adventure and I'm glad I'm done. I am 80 and I love living in my tiny home. Yes, it is a relief.
@@judyross182 Good for you.. I'm moving into a senior apartment and crying cause it's a lot of work alone Can't believe that I had so much stuff & have to rid myself of 79 years worth of BS... I'm throwing it in a dumpster! My kids don't care, all have an attitude cause I'm annoying, imagine that?! I'm annoying, what about the the lines I stood on overbite to get presents the"y " Had" to have or how many times did I see Star Wars in the cinema sitting there annoyed that my son was still watching Teenage Mutant Turtles after 4 times! My girls think I'm the storage unit thru both own & I'm done! No body to help but everyone wants me to hold on into it, it's a collectable, yeah, so keep it cause it's going on a dumpster. I don't need Barbie or cabbage patch kids, actually when zi do move ( January) I'm not even putting up pictures that I've had for years of them! I know whY they look like, how they act & left me to deal with all this BS. I'm really upset so my Irish is way up & it's all going . Can't come with me that's for sure. And, mark my words all three of them will have a certain thing that I threw away, they'll be upset & tell me all about myself. But, not here to sort, go thru anything, clothes , shoes, pictures,pictures more pictures! I have memories so no need for pictures! Their going to hate me but they half way do anyway, I'm going full throttle just to SHOCK these creatures I've raised to be selfish monsters.... I'm not an option any more.. So, please pray that I get thru it all... Thanks, Happy New Year- it's going to be great!! I'm praying for a few Blessings for all... ❤️🇱🇷🍀🙏😘
so true. The older I get the less I want to waste my remaining time on managing stuff.
Wonderful journey! Wishing you all the best ❤
I agree. One of my favorite things to do is get rid of stuff. I do keep the furniture because replacement is so expensive. Only have valences instead of curtains. Did not buy any Christmas presents because we don't need anything .
I am so happy I'm very neat, clean, and organize!....I go through my large apartment and declutter every 6 months.....I must admit I'm OCD-ISH☺.....I even DOWNSIZED my life since the 2008 Recession!....I LIVE my life nice but simple, healthy, daily exercise., clutter free, maintaining my yearly health maintenance, PRAY DAILY, read the bible DAILY, and eat a Mediterranean diet way of eating, continue to keep my inner peace, sense of style, and continues to enjoy ART, Theater, music, ETC
Wow, that is awesome! Proud of you and keep up the great work.
My happiest moments were finding a big bag of yarns (& sometimes the tools!) for sale in a charity shop or resale store! 🤩 I'd ALWAYS buy it & share with my very grateful daughter-in-laws, so PLEASE donate!!! 😍
If completely overwhelmed I think she needs to take care of herself. I admit I would feel guilty BUT guilt is ok if ready for a nervous breakdown due to stress and depression. Tossing is sometimes a necessary thing.
@@anitawebster9450 by any chance do you live in NC. I’m moving & I have yarn, macrame jute, crochet/knitting books, & lots of sewing stuff I’ll give you.
I gave my granddaughter 6 steriite totes full of un opened yarn.
I have arthritis in both hands and probably another 4 Starlite totes of Yarn that I will get rid of if I can't crochet without a lot of pain this winter. Thanks for the suggestion.
I come from a family of hoarders and I was their dumping grounds for getting rid of stuff. Finally with barely room to walk around in my small house, I had enough. I sell, donate, recycle or throw out. If I don't love it or need it, it goes. I'm 60 and if I want to move into smaller housing I'm not taking all this junk . I always have a donate box going. It's so much easier to clean and as I dig my way out of the hoard I'm finding things I haven't seen in years. My holiday vacation this year is cleaning, repairing, reorganizing, and rethinking what I love and need in my tiny house . One by one I'm going through closets and drawers. Break it down to the ridiculous. Do what you can.
😂
I have papers and such, it mostly does not add value, most all of it. Emotional clutter, is tough. I am getting rid of stuff. I know that my kids do not want most of my gunk. A photo album is grand. Every thing is in one spot. I have gotten rid of every thing plastic in my kitchen.. many duplicates and serving dishes. I am getting there. You are amazing, I have a hobby space that is out of control.. I have been letting things go and gone no spend on hobbies this entire past year. I just subscribed to this Chanel. I love this kind of encouragement.
@@cynthiaakacyndsmith6539 You’re doing such a fantastic job decluttering! Tackling emotional clutter and simplifying your space takes real effort, but your progress is inspiring. Staying committed to no-spend hobbies and focusing on what adds value is truly commendable. Keep it up-you’re on the right track!
I am at a point right now where I want to rent a dumpster and put it outside my front door and just shovel everything into it. Pure and simple, I have too much stuff. And you are right, it is very stressful, having all this crap. I bought that book, the Spark Joy book…yeah. Haven’t read it yet. It’s sitting on top of the giant pile of other books I might get around to reading some day.
I recently watched a video on thrift stores and donations, and it said that most of what is donated winds up in the landfills anyway, that maybe 30% is resold. Barges of our cheap cast off clothes (USA and UK) go to places like Africa, where even they can’t use all of it and it winds up in their landfills, or worse, in the ocean. We buy too much stuff, and justify it by thinking we can donate it later, but really, it’s just wasteful.
There is one series of books that really motivated me many years ago to get rid of junk, including my husband. The best and first book of the series is titled "Clutter's Last Stand," the author is Don Aslett, a man who owned his own professional cleaning business for many years.
His advice is so good, and his writing is so delightful, it's nearly impossible to put the book down, but it also strongly motivates the reader to get up and get busy clearing out their house. It really, truly works!
@ sounds good, will look for it, thanks! (Did it really inspire you to get rid of your husband…??)
This video is great. Thank you for practical, clear explanation.
The most helpful declutterring video I have ever watched! Thank you! ❤
The tips were not only practical but also incredibly relatable. It's refreshing to see such thoughtful advice tailored to people over 60, and the focus on both physical and emotional clutter was spot on. The transformation of Mary’s home felt inspiring, and the step-by-step approach made it easy to envision applying the tips in my own space. Keep up the amazing work!
In Sweden, they call it death cleaning. It’s preparing for when you are no longer here and therefore not leaving a huge mess for your loved ones to have to sort through and clean up which I have had to do now with my mother’s house and my brothers house, and it is a daunting task which takes an incredibly long time and a lot of emotional effort to get done. So by engaging in death cleaning you are saving your family, a lot of grief when you die. And really, it is your responsibility to sort out your things and work out what is rubbish and what is something that needs to be thrown away, given to charity, perhaps given to friends or why not give you Love ones, they’re special little inheritances while you still are alive. If you intend to give a special vase or a tea service and so on to your niece or your daughter, then why not give it to them now while you are alive and you can see the joy that it gives them. of course that’s a personal decision, especially if it’s involving things like jewelry that perhaps you are still wearing, but certain things like bone china collections or that antique dining table and sideboard and coffee table set that your daughter just loves would be a perfect way of decluttering your house and making room for some smaller newer fresher pieces for yourself to enjoy.
I am 70, and I have done death cleaning at least five times over the last 20 years and it has helped keep my house the cluttered and keep my stress levels low so I really recommend it. ❤❤❤🙌🏻
I wish everyone would do this, it has taken me a year to sort out my late parents stuff and I'm still not done. It's so time consuming, overwhelming and emotionally draining.
This is what I did 10 year ago when I moved and for the past 18 months, one hour a week. It worked, cause I wanted it to succeed. It's exactly as the lady in this episode is telling us. If you're not so good at it, ask a friend, who's better at it, to help you. No one's good at everything😁.
Since years I reorganize my clutter every year. Since I had to empty the flat of my mother when she died, I decided that my children dont‘have to do it for me and that it is bether to buy less but good quality. Even on black friday i buy just nothing. My home is still rich of some meanful colorful clutter but only things that I love. So people loves my flat because it‘s cosy.
I parted with my wedding dress a few months ago. I took it to a place like good will. Before parting with it I hung it in front of the closet door so it would be in my way each time I had to look in the closet. Having the dress in such an inconvenient place helped me reinforce the truth that the dress was in the way. Previously it was taking up space in the closet and was easier to forget about how much space it required.
I just sold my business and am now going through everything. Its not easy but definitely worth it
This is so subtle, yet so powerful. I can’t stop thinking about it
I'm a guy, and when I moved the movers moved the heavy pieces, but I carried the drawers... So the end result is that on the surface, everything looks great... Just don't open any of the drawers because they contain, well to be honest I don't know. Great tips.And I guess it's time to get going. Great video, many tips!!!!
very useful information for new year.
I grew up in a hoarder house. I’ve had to come back the other way and not judge it in a superior way however it does make me feel better to be more organized and careful. I’m OK with being neat.
As far as expired meds, this I do regularly. I have been getting rid of unused stuff little by little. I have one junk drawer, which I organized about 6 months ago Andis still in good shape. As far as electronics ,I gave several old phones and cords! Lots, but I want to get rid of them safely. I haven't heard of stores that take them.i myst look into that. I declutter my closet seasonally. The hardest things for me to declutter are craft items (fabric and yarn) and books.
It sounds like you're doing an amazing job tackling clutter! For your old electronics, many recycling centers or stores accept them safely-you might want to check out options nearby. Craft items and books can be tough, but maybe donating to local schools or libraries could help?
I’m 57 and going through my cluttered kitchen cabinets now. I had lot of glass jars, plastic containers than I thought. I’m getting rid of plastic containers that don’t have lids. I had more lids than containers. We bought a pull out that is adjustable so I can pull out and see whats in back now. I will tackle cabinet under sink next. Theres lots of cleaners there. Most don’t get used.
We moved many times and I became a minimalist without even knowing what it was.
Video is great for someone who is cleaning up after a dementia patient or relative. Thank you! ❤
While most of your advice is spit on the notion of replacing furniture and window treatments is often not practical for retirees on a fixed income.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts! I completely understand that replacing items like furniture and window treatments might not always be feasible on a fixed income. The video aims to highlight simple ways to reduce clutter without breaking the bank, like reorganizing or repurposing what you already have.
I did all my window treatments after moving into retirement community. Big box stores also have curtains incl ones that block people from seeing in at night at reasonable prices like H. Depot incl rods. I also got rid of excess furniture as it wasn't needed.
No but washing the curtains and pillows or giving them a good cleaning with a vacuum will make the room feel much cleaner and smell great.
I haven’t used a curtain my life..happily so..at 75/works.
That sounds like such a thoughtful way to create a cozy and functional space! Updating window treatments for privacy and simplicity is a great idea, especially with affordable options. Decluttering furniture must have made the space feel even more open and relaxing. Great tips for anyone downsizing or redecorating!
I used the Konmarie method a few years ago. I revisit that every so often, and it's amazing the rubbish we keep.
Excellent advice! Thanks.
You nailed this.
Caroline: great collaging! Happy New Year. Carol from California
I moved into a 27’ fifth wheel six months ago, that meant I had to seriously declutter. If I still have something now, I need it!😂
Swedish death cleaning is life changing!! I didn’t have a fraction of all this video did but I started getting rid of things I didn’t need, use or want and 15 car loads of things to the thrift store later, I feel freer, lighter and so much better. The hardest part is letting go of “sentimental attachments” and giving yourself permission to let go of them. Mine came in waves. Some things I was ready to let go immediately and other things came later. Honestly I’m still collecting things to donate. It’s so much less to take care of or store.
I think this is very interesting and is good for me ( a thirty something ! ) as it it for today's active seniors....thanks ! BB from somewhere in Louisiana USA 🤠♥️
Really good and helpful. I"m glad I clicked on this.
True I didn’t think to check spice dates. I remember when a guy was upset when the kids cleaned out the cabinet after his wife died, I felt bad for him , but after we talked we figured there probably were expired items, now he can get a fresh start😊
Spices don't expire, they just get weaker. Use more!
I don’t mind keeping good things that I myself rarely use or never use because when the helper arrives to fix the things that I cannot I have lost count of the times I am asked if I have some tool or other and I feel very glad that for the most part I can say “yes. Some of my stuff I know my son would be more than happy to receive but because I know that the helpers may need them he will have to wait. The personal things that mean something to me but not to him he can put out for the garbage collection, it won’t take long to get the pile together. Many of us have clothes that are rarely worn such as (in my case) summer dresses, but we need a few.
Things that bring you joy are a big part of feeling a home is a home. What are those things?
What things give me a sense of joy?
1. favorite cookbooks, so declutter the kitchen for trying those new things in those favorite cookbooks. 2. favorite items of clothing, lose those extra pounds so they fit better and wear them. 3. hiking and camping gear, 'keep the best get rid of the rest'. 4. techie stuff, declutter.
My top source of joy is expanse of space in rooms with windows for natural light, rooms with no doors or doors open, and warm tones of accents with neutral natural colors of the most pleasant environments I have been.
I thought I love forests and mountain vistas, yes I do, to visit. At my home, I love water reflections of glass and high polish floors, colors and texture of beach sand and sunshine, sunrise and sunsets. The colors in my home reflect that. The livingroom is the best expression.
My bedroom has my health maintainance gear, so much like a stylish sports club. My bathroom, my spa. The linen closet has towels and a change of bedding. The spare bedroom is an office of low key tech, minimum cables, important paperwork only, as you say, and few photos in an archival box under the bed.
The garage is an open space, lighting adequate, walls hold garden and the yard tools are at the back of the garage. I have one bicycle and one set of extra parts in the corner near the door.
..oh, I was fantasizing!
This house, garage, garden and yard is what I want for my house, garage, garden and yard. It is a work in progress.
Thank you, your presentation is so accurate and so real.
I have food in my chest freezer from the cretaceous period .
Our freezer is where things go to die. We never see them again.😁
Im a little afraid of mine, its deep, I'll be reaching in to get to the bottom and may fall in and freeze to death. There they'll find me, 6 months later with a 2005 Chocolate Easter bunny in my cold dead hands. 🥶
Even frozen foods have an expiration date, so when freezing anything it’s important to put a date on it. Believe it or not, most frozen foods are only good for 6 months. Some for 3. So it pays to look into it.😊
Get rid of the freezer and eat fresh food not frozen.
@@SuziBerg Freezing food is a perfect way to store and preserve food. Unless you shop every other day or buy high priced single servings of meat,( ice cream?) It saves vast amts of money when stocking up on sale items or preserving your own fruits and veg. An its a life saver in an emergency, keeping foods frozen for up to a week without power. I put gal. bottles of water in there too for emergencies....I just lose track of whats all in there.
Darlene, ` Thank you for this video I have the need to declutter because of living a good life, also i had Brain surgery and it had an effect on keeping even more items? needless to say I needed this and need! to do It. it was calm and helpful. Sincerely Darlene.
I found something in my kitchen cabinet on the topshelf in a jar. I couldn't tell what it was😮😅.
Thank you for stating the things I already know but do nothing about. I am Mary and need to start her/my journey.
I'm in my mid fifties & started a serious decluttering journey in 2023.
I recently did my living trust, and I told my son, "I'm leaving you the house." He looked horrified and shouted, "No!" Wow, it never occurred to me that he wouldn't want the house because of all the "stuff" inside. I've started the tough job of unloading all this stuff I thought I needed. Our adult children probably live in smaller places and have their own space issues. No way do they want our things, too!
Put all the important papers in one drawer, and make sure your next of kin know exactly where to find them when they are trying to sort things out after you have gone.
I have no idea how many junk drawers… I appreciate your tips
I have endless scratch pads with "list of things to The idea to digitize sounds perfect!! do" and I keep transferring them to new pads, it's cluttering crazy!
As someone who has lost 'everything' twice a word of advice: SAVE YOUR PICTURES.
Let them be some older people retain things for memories and bring them joy my mother just passed and she still had things from when I was little I'm 64 my dad passed and my younger brother she still had their things !! Leave them be!!
I agree. I cleaned out my mother's place when she moved into aged care with dementia. Yes it's not a nice job, but it's a couple of days hard work and it's done. It's not too much to ask. Let old people keep their things and we'll deal with it for them when it's time.
Don’t like it when Mary is 10 different people 😢
I still have spices my mom used in the 1970s. Oh boy.
Yeah, unbelievable. I had a bag in the fridge with condiments, probably 20 years old, omg throw it out. Now I have a little cup with condiments and I never buy bottles of condiments anymore.
@ My husband takes the packets and squeezes them into their appropriate bottles. I’m a lucky gal!
Does anyone have to repurchase items you know you have but can’t find it!
One of my dad's phases "It's sucking up my air"
I always need several pairs of scissors and other tools. But yes most things are unnecessary triplicates. Having moved many times I’ve purged so many things. Very hard to do and some things have caused me great regrets.
I have my wedding dress that was also my mom's wedding dress. I've been married 40 years.
Mine was lost in a house fire. it was a memory from a lousy marriage, so there was no great loss.
I have ONE junk drawer but that's enough. Live in a very small studio grage apt.
Good info
Interesting advices
I had to laugh while you told us of the first thing making clutter. I do paper crafting as a hobby; and indeed, this room I am sitting in has stacks of books, magazines and papers. Fear not! The rest of my home is furnished simply and most everything has been pruned down to facilitate ease of clearing for when the time comes. There is also a list of four different groups who will take all my crafting items in total for use in the arts programs in their schools and community centers. I didn’t finish the video though. I
I did just go thru my spices and tossed much of it. I really don’t use many spices anyway. The TV and even stores make it seem necessary.
Medicines should not be stored in the medicine cabinet in the bathroom beacuse of the high humidity there. Put it in a cabinet or on a shelf instead.
"Great tip! High humidity can definitely affect medications. Storing them in a cool, dry place like a kitchen cabinet can help them last longer and stay effective."
Mine are kept in the kitchen where I know they are safe from anybody who comes into my house. Ghey aren’t going to find anything in my bathroom
I’m a 69 year old single lady. I live in an senior apartments. My problem is that I live in a small apartment. So even having a few items can make it feel cluttered. I have been purging now for a couple of months. Every time I clean one area I will find more stuff. It’s very difficult and overwhelming.
😂Love my lovely cluther in my home😂
@itsmoi55 Haha, nothing wrong with a little 'lovely clutter' if it makes your home feel cozy and personal! 😊 But if you ever decide to tidy up just a bit, I’ve got some fun tips in my video you might enjoy!
I'm a natural minimalist.. clutter makes my brain scream..why waste valuable LIFE time searching, digging, sorting through crap you DON'T need? I've digitized my 56,000 photos, sorted them and now DISPLAY them on my computer so I SEE them, and enjoy them every day.. I've also scanned important paperwork.. and kept ONE file folder.. my life is simple, yet full. Thank you for your video.
6 piles of paperwork in just this room. Im 79 and this mess started when my only child passed away.
Two years ago.
🤗
Understandable ❤God Bless
😂😂 Some things just don’t seem that important as we age, here’s my 91 year old outlook, if you don’t like the way I keep house stay away. I realize that isn’t for everyone but it works for me...Critical people I can do without.
Great video i love getting rid of stuff Makes me sohappy when the garbage men come
I second previous comment about $ to replace furniture on fixed income!
I take my photos and go through them. Then I categorize them. I get a large recipe box and put them in there with the dividers saying what they are. For example, my husband and I used to go to Niagara Falls every year. I put them all together in on the divider. I write Niagara Falls vacation it works great.
That’s such a wonderful and creative idea! Organizing your memories like that must make them so easy to revisit and enjoy. I love how you’ve preserved your trips to Niagara Falls-it sounds like such a special tradition with your husband. Thanks for sharing this inspiring tip!
But be mindful, will anyone want the photos of you at Niagara falls every year when you are gone? I threw away my parents vacation snaps in favour of family pictures. You can't keep everything.
So the pharmacies can resale them
I don't have a junk drawer at all. But there are 4 spots where random homeless clutter appears, so maybe i need one!
I cleaned out my messes and it felt a tight band rubber band taken off my brain. I would breath and when my friends come into my apparent they say it is so peaceful in your apartment. 94
What are you doing in my house!!!
😂 Sometimes it feels like we’re describing everyone’s homes, doesn’t it? You’re not alone in this!
@@Lifeadviceforolderpeopleyes
😂 yes, mine too.
getting it out is the problem
Knick knacks arrrrr😮
I think I have 7 Knick knacks, strategically placed so they each get the notice I think they deserve. I’m a bit concerned that with my sister moving in with me in June she’ll bring a truckload with her. I hate that clutter.
If I want a cluttered free home I need to toss out my husband with the next box of donations. Everytime I free up a space my husband puts something else in the space I just cleared out. 😅
I know the feeling 😅
Mine was actually the FIRST thing I decluttered...never regretted it. But you do you, if he's a keeper he's a keeper and that's that! 😂
Pretty soon, you can train him to just go ahead and take it to the dumpster! Keep decluttering and it will become easier. 😊
If your car won’t fit in your garage you have too much stuff.
😂True!
Need a garage
My car fits easily in my garage, but I’ve given myself the task of entirely emptying the other half of the garage. I have tools and camping stuff there.
In the UK no one puts their car in the garage, it's full of bikes, lawn mowers, tools, garden furniture and old paint!
@ 😂
Oh my gosh. That sounds like our home. We need to go through every drawer, closet, ect. I’m going to the liquor store and getting empty boxes to fill. Room by room. I helped my mom downsize and it was a nightmare. We don’t want our kids to suffer the same fate.
I go rid of a lot of figurines. 😊
Thrift shops in Central FL don’t want old dish or gibletsm best up pits and pans. They have to toss out. So toss with no hui,t.
Estate Sales are the solution for leftover STUFF your heirs don't want. Customers buy what they want. Heirs get money. Sounds like a good trade to me. Yes I'm keeping ALLLL the things. I bought them deliberately. If there comes a time surfaces can't be seen or mere paths not walkable anywhere, there's a dumpster right out back....AND a burn pile. Haven't got to that. Personal technical library can be sent to museum of same.
You wouldn’t want modern low furniture in old age.
Four draw filing cabinet is good to alphabetically file away invoices/bills, manuals for appliances and business cards. Rather than stuffing them in every draw around the house you can find then have trouble finding that particular item. I’ve recently cleared out my kitchen cupboards, after clearing out stuff I haven’t used for ages, I now have room in my cupboards. Cleared out my linen cupboard and wardrobe. Handing it to a charitable company doesn’t make you feel guilty. I dislike clutter and avoid buying things I really don’t need. You don’t take them with you when you pass and will only create more work for your children to clear your mess.
OCD can't file, trust, or if we did, we'd spend hours looking through the files to find the correct heading for a single piece of paper.
IMO, one drawer a month should be one drawer a day.
One a month would take forever!
Donate anything that is in good condition to Thrift stores and let somebody enjoy your old goods.
Hi new subscriber
More stacks of paper than I can count. Ditto all the rest
Stacks of paper can definitely be overwhelming! Sometimes tackling just one small pile at a time makes a big difference. Do you have any tricks that work for managing paper clutter?
@@Lifeadviceforolderpeople I wish. I am ADHD with many struggles.
@@janpetsch620"It’s okay to have struggles-having ADHD doesn’t define your strength or worth. You’re doing the best you can, and that’s enough. Remember, even small wins matter, and you’re not alone on this journey. Sending you encouragement and a big virtual hug!"
😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢 believe it or not I didn't realize it that I had enough paper to fill up at least eight bathtubs but I got rid of that now I'm down to a face Bowl full and get ready to work on that tonight and tomorrow
@ I feel ya
In addition to clutter, we have remodeling projects for the last 10 years. We're in the process of turning a double home into a single home.
Did anyone else notice the dozens of little orbs floating around this video? Maybe more than just 'things' are around that house.
This video seems to apply to people who are hoarders or extreme savers. Saving spices for more than 5 years? That's crazy
I just threw out some spices today - it felt good to create some space in that drawer 😊
How do I save my Husband's and Son's Memorable items? They have both passed away.
Decluttering your home is about creating a space that feels peaceful, functional, and reflects your current lifestyle.
Having a grown child in it!