How to declutter without the chaos to create more space, less stress

(Aging Untold) — Whether downsizing to a smaller home, moving into an independent living community or simply reclaiming space, older adults face a range of emotional and physical challenges when it comes to getting rid of belongings.

The emotional weight of letting go

The Aging Untold experts say possessions carry a significant emotional burden, particularly for older adults.

“People’s stuff weighs so heavy on them,” aging-well coach Katherine Ambrose said. “This is one of the things that older adults will really feel guilt and shame over — and a lot of anxiety over — because they know they have a task undone.”

Decluttering involves three distinct dimensions: emotional attachment, physical safety and health-related anxiety.

Items are collected over the course of a lifetime, and people get attached to them. Those tied to personal loss can make the process especially difficult.

“Maybe I lost my son and he gave this to me,” gerontologist Sam Cradduck said. “While you see it as just a tchotchke and something sitting on a shelf, to me I see it as the last thing that I have to hold on to him and so we have to honor that.”

Physical and health risks

Beyond the emotional toll, physical clutter poses health risks, including falling.

“Falling is the number one thing that you see in the elderly that can really make everything go downhill,” Dr. Rhea Rogers, a board-certified physician, said.

Where to start

Ambrose advised against tackling the most overwhelming spaces first. Instead, she recommended beginning with items that are easiest to discard.

“Start with the trash, the stuff that’s easy to let go of,” Ambrose said. “Tackle the easy things so you feel progress. Getting into action is going to help you deal with the emotion.”

For those moving into a senior living community, the process can move quickly with outside help.

“The whole thing can be done in two weeks with help,” Ambrose said.