From A Woman's Perspective: December 14th, 2024 "Holiday Decluttering Guide for Downsizing Seniors"

Holiday Decluttering Guide for Downsizing Seniors
 

As we age, simplifying life often becomes a priority. Holiday decorations, while treasured, can take up significant space and require energy to maintain. Here's a step-by-step guide tailored to seniors who want to downsize their holiday decor without losing the festive spirit:

Step 1: Reflect on what matters most

1. Identify sentimental pieces 

Start by setting aside the decorations that hold the most sentimental value - family heirlooms, handmade items, or those with cherished memories. 

2. Define your current needs

Consider your current lifestyle and holiday traditions. Are you hosting large gatherings, or do you now prefer simpler celebrations? Keep what fits your “now” and consider reducing what doesn’t. 

Step 2: Sort your decorations

Use the “Keep, Donate and Toss” method:

1. Keep: Items you love and will use this year.
2. Donate: Decorations in good condition that you no longer need. Many charities and thrift stores welcome holiday items. 
3. Toss: Broken or worn-out items that can’t be repaired or reused.

If there are decorations you are unsure about, set them aside in a fourth category: “Maybe.” See how you feel at the end of the holiday season when you are packing everything back up for storage.

Step 3: Focus on multifunctional and compact decor

1. Switch to LED lights

LED lights are energy efficient, longer lasting, and more compact so they take up less space.

2. Choose a smaller tree

A table top tree or artificial tree can be easier to set up and to store.

3. Simplify by decorating one area

Focus your holiday spirit in one, main visible area instead of many. Does anyone really need a basement tree? 

Step 4: Organize for easy storage

1. Use clear, labeled bins

Store decorations in transparent containers with labels for easy identification.

2. Wrap fragile items carefully

Keep treasured items safe by reusing old gift tissue paper for storage. Egg cartons can protect smaller ornaments.

3. Keep like with like

Organizing decorations by type will make it easier to find what you need next year. All the floral decor in one clear bin, all the lights in another bin, and all the seasonal servingware in another. You get the idea!

Step Five: Share the Joy

1. Pass down heirlooms

Share cherished items with children, grandchildren or close friends who will appreciate them for years to come. 

2. Host a decoration swap

Invite friends and family to exchange decorations, giving everyone a chance to refresh their collection.

3. Donate to local causes

Schools, community centres, or charities can benefit from gently used decorations. 

The goal in decluttering is not to eliminate the special items that bring you joy, but to be intentional about keeping only what is actually wanted and used. Holiday decor seems to be one of these categories of clutter we are particularly reluctant to cull. But by decluttering your holiday decorations, you are freeing up space and energy for what truly matters - spending time with loved ones and creating meaningful memories. 

If you’re interested in other decluttering resources, check out our website, smartrealtysolution.com. We have free downloadable booklets and a wealth of blog posts on topics related to downsizing. Got a question? Reach out to me at 416-460-5636.

That’s it for today, Marilyn. My name is Sharon Parenteau and these have been your SMART Realty Solutions.

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