The longer we live in a place, the longer we tend to collect… stuff. Consider that the average American home contains 300,000 items, much of it likely collected over the years and forgotten about. Or consider that a quarter of Americans admit that their garages are too full of clutter to park in.
Is it time to get rid of a few odds and ends around the house? Here are three great reasons to help your parents or other loved ones clean up:
Have fun chatting with your parents about old mementos. Spring cleaning can be a wonderful bonding opportunity for older adults and their children. As you’re going through your parents’ closets, take time to ask about what you find. Maybe you’ll learn why mom purchased that dress at the end of the closet. Perhaps you’ll discover who those people are in the photo of your dad at the lake in his late teens. The objects we’ve collected in our lives are packed with memories, and those memories are meant to be shared. Take the time to ask questions and to listen.
Improve home safety. A clean and tidy house provides safety benefits for older people. As we age, our eyesight decreases and our steadiness diminishes. Every second of every day, an older adult falls somewhere in the U.S.; falls are the No. 1 cause of injuries among older Americans. Getting rid of clutter around the home is one of the best ways to improve safety around the home for older adults.
Put unused items to good use. That old clothing, furniture and household decorations just hanging around in the closet or attic could find new life in the home of someone who needs it. In Bellingham, Lynden and throughout Whatcom County are many options for donating what you don’t need. Many of these options can give you a tax-deductible receipt, too.
- Goodwill Industries. The Goodwill store on Sunset Drive in Bellingham accepts donations every day of the week.
- The Second Chance Thrift Store in Lynden. This store, operated by Lynden Christian Schools, is open Tuesday through Saturday, with donations accepted during store hours.
- Habitat for Humanity Store. Donations help support the Habitat program of building homes for those who need them. Call the store to arrange pickup of large items.
- Assistance League of Bellingham. Donations are accepted at the store, on Meridian Street across from Haggen. Donations help fund the Assistance League’s four community programs.
- WiseBuys. This thrift store supports Lydia Place, which provides housing for women and children in Whatcom County. Learn more about donation options here.
- The Salvation Army. Donations can be made at the Bellingham thrift store, located at 1515 Birchwood Ave.
- School fundraisers. Schools often hold garage sales to fund various programs. Contact your grandchildren’s school and ask if they’re taking donations of household items, clothing, or anything else you might have.
- Grandkids. Grandchildren themselves might be able to make use of items! Plus, there’ll be an extra benefit to knowing they came from grandma or grandpa.
Decluttering your parents’ attic, garage or even living room can be a lot more fun than you might think. If offers the chance to spend time with your loved ones, doing good deeds for them and for the community — while making wonderful memories in the process.